The olecranon, a bony prominence located just under the skin on the back of the elbow, can fracture either due to a direct blow or the strong pulling force of the triceps muscle attached to it. Pain and swelling occur at the fracture site, and in displaced fractures, the patient is unable to straighten the elbow.

An X-ray is sufficient to diagnose an olecranon fracture. The goals of treatment are to restore joint surface integrity, repair the elbow extensor mechanism, ensure elbow stability, prevent vascular and nerve injury, and avoid joint stiffness.

Non-displaced fractures make up a small portion of olecranon fractures and are treated with immobilization using a splint for four weeks. All other olecranon fractures are treated surgically.