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Int J Sports Med 1986; 07(4): 210-213
DOI: 10.1055/s-2008-1025760
© Georg Thieme Verlag Stuttgart · New York

Stress Fractures of the Olecranon in Javelin Throwers

A. Hulkko1 , S. Orava2 , P. Nikula2
  • 1Dept. of Surgery, University Hospital, Oulu
  • 2Dept. of Surgery, Keski-Pohjanmaa Central Hospital, Kokkola, and Sports Injury Clinic Medirex, Kokkola, Finland
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Publication History

Publication Date:
14 March 2008 (online)

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Abstract

Between the years 1977 and 1984, four javelin throwers with a stress fracture of the olecranon were seen and treated. In one patient, acute painful dislocation of the fracture occurred during a competitive throw.

Two patients had stress fracture of the tip. The fracture treated conservatively healed in 18 months. The patient treated by excision of the tip was able to throw after 2 months.

Two patients had slightly oblique, more distally located stress fractures, which were treated with a tension band and 2 Kirschner wires. The fractures healed in 4 months. One of the patients had a refracture 11 months after the primary operation. It was successfully treated with a compression screw and two bone pegs.

Because of the high risk of delayed union and nonunion, stress fractures of the olecranon should be treated operatively in javelin throwers.

Key words

athletic injuries - elbow - fracture - stress mechanical

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