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Question
44 year-old construction worker fell off a ladder and presents with elbow pain. What's the diagnosis and what is the most commonly associated nerve injury?
Answer
Olecranon fracture; the ulnar nerve is most commonly injured
Pearls for Olecranon Fracture
- Typically occurs secondary to direct blow or fall on an outstretched hand
- Patients present with a complaint of pain along the olecranon with an inability to extend the elbow
- Ulnar nerve injury is common.
- Non-displaced fractures are typically managed conservatively with placement in a long-arm posterior splint; elbow must be placed in flexion of 70° and forearm is neutral
- Other types of olecranon injuries require surgical repair
References
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