## Overview Olecranon fracture is a break of the point of the elbow, usually from direct trauma such as a kick or fall. Because the triceps inserts on the olecranon, the horse cannot extend the elbow and presents with a dropped elbow and non-weight-bearing lameness. Surgical repair with plates and screws is the treatment of choice for most displaced fractures and carries a generally good prognosis. ## Causes Direct trauma. In foals, excessive pull from the triceps can also cause fracture. ## Diagnosis Characteristic posture and radiographs of the elbow. ## Treatment Tension-band plating for displaced fractures. Some non-displaced fractures in foals may be managed conservatively. Prognosis is good with internal fixation. ## Recovery and Prognosis Good with appropriate surgical repair. ## Prevention Trauma avoidance.
dropped elbow; inability to bear weight; swelling at the point of the elbow; cannot extend the elbow
## Overview Olecranon fracture is a break of the point of the elbow, usually from direct trauma such as a kick or fall. Because the triceps inserts on the olecranon, the horse cannot extend the elbow and presents with a dropped elbow and non-weight-bearing lameness. Surgical repair with plates and screws is the treatment of choice for most displaced fractures and carries a generally good prognosis. ## Causes Direct trauma. In foals, excessive pull from the triceps can also cause fracture. ## Diagnosis Characteristic posture and radiographs of the elbow. ## Treatment Tension-band plating for displaced fractures. Some non-displaced fractures in foals may be managed conservatively. Prognosis is good with internal fixation. ## Recovery and Prognosis Good with appropriate surgical repair. ## Prevention Trauma avoidance.
dropped elbow; inability to bear weight; swelling at the point of the elbow; cannot extend the elbow