A procedure to stabilize fractures of the elbow, such as the radial head or olecranon, using fixation devices.
Through an open incision, the fractured bone is realigned and secured, typically with plates and screws, or with wires for some fracture patterns. The procedure typically takes one to two hours, depending on the complexity of the fracture, and may be day surgery or involve a short hospital stay.
Assessment includes examination and X-rays, sometimes supplemented with a CT scan for more complex fracture patterns, to plan the surgery. Standard preoperative steps apply, including fasting and arranging transport home.
A splint or brace is worn initially, with the surgeon guiding when it is safe to begin moving the elbow, since early, appropriate movement helps reduce the risk of stiffness. Pain is managed with simple analgesia in the initial weeks. Full recovery generally takes several months.
Physiotherapy typically starts with gentle, guided range-of-motion exercises once the surgeon confirms the fixation is stable enough to allow movement, progressing to strengthening exercises over subsequent months as healing is confirmed on follow-up X-rays.
Risks include infection, the fracture failing to heal (nonunion) or healing in a less than ideal position (malunion), and stiffness, which is a particular concern at the elbow. There is also a small risk of injury to the nerves that run close to the joint, and hardware occasionally requires removal later if it causes irritation.
The aim is a healed, stable elbow with good functional movement. Most patients regain good elbow function, though because the elbow is prone to stiffness after injury, some residual reduction in the full range of motion is common even with good healing.
Elbow fracture fixation stabilises a broken bone at the elbow with plates, screws or wires, aiming for reliable healing and a return to good elbow function. Early, guided movement after surgery is an important part of achieving the best outcome, given the elbow's tendency toward stiffness after injury.
