Results of plate fixation of type 5 olecranon fractures in 20 horses

Summary Reasons for performing study : Previous olecranon fracture reports contain a small proportion of type 5 fractures, mostly treated with conservative therapy. Objectives : To evaluate the clinical details and outcome of type 5 olecranon fractures in a large group of horses treated by tension band plate fixation and to compare results with other treatment methods. Methods : Medical records of 97 cases, including 32 (33%) classified as type 5 , were reviewed. Subject details, history, radiographic findings, treatment and follow‐up results (2–146 months post operatively) were recorded. Results : Treatment included open reduction and internal fixation using a narrow or broad dynamic compression plate (n = 20), conservative therapy (n = 7) and euthanasia (n = 5). Long‐term follow‐up was available in 15 cases treated surgically, of which 2 were sound and in training, 11 sound and performing athletically and 2 unsound. Distal semilunar notch involvement, comminution or open status did not appear to affect prognosis. Conclusions : Internal plate fixation provides an excellent prognosis for an animal to be capable of athletic performance. Potential relevance : Describing tension band plate fixation and results offers a method of fracture repair that should improve treatment and prognosis for type 5 olecranon fractures.