Fractures: olecranon fracture: practice question

A Orthopaedics question in the style of the NEET PG paper. Answer it first, then read why the right option is right and why each of the others is wrong.

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Orthopaedics · Fractures: olecranon fracture

Sample item

A displaced transverse olecranon fracture is best treated by which method?

Original practice item, not a recalled exam question. Nothing here is recorded.

The answer and the reasoning

A. Tension band wiring

The triceps pull distracts the fracture fragments, so a displaced olecranon fracture needs fixation. Tension band wiring converts the distracting triceps force into compression at the joint surface.

Option by option

  • A. Tension band wiring (correct)

    Correct. Tension band wiring neutralises the triceps pull.

  • B. Collar and cuff sling

    A sling is only for undisplaced fractures.

  • C. Above-elbow cast for 6 weeks

    A cast cannot hold a fracture distracted by the triceps.

  • D. Excision of the fragment with no repair

    Excision alone is reserved for small comminuted fragments in the elderly.

Source note: Original NextPrep sample item — pending expert review. This item is original practice material awaiting independent expert review, so confirm important facts in a standard textbook.

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Questions about this Orthopaedics question

What is the answer to this Orthopaedics question?

The best answer is A, Tension band wiring. The triceps pull distracts the fracture fragments, so a displaced olecranon fracture needs fixation.

Why is "Collar and cuff sling" not the answer?

A sling is only for undisplaced fractures.

Why is "Above-elbow cast for 6 weeks" not the answer?

A cast cannot hold a fracture distracted by the triceps.

Why is "Excision of the fragment with no repair" not the answer?

Excision alone is reserved for small comminuted fragments in the elderly.

What concept does this question test?

It tests Fractures: olecranon fracture in Orthopaedics. Tension band wiring converts the distracting triceps force into compression at the joint surface.

How hard is this question?

We tag it as an application question: it asks you to use a fact on a patient or a finding. The tag is our own editorial judgement, not an official difficulty rating, so read the reason for every option, not only the answer.

How should I study Fractures: olecranon fracture?

Pair each fracture with its classic complication and nerve injured. Then use the flashcards and the other Orthopaedics questions on this site to test what stuck.

Is this a real NEET PG question?

No. It is an original practice item (editorial status: sample, version 1). NextPrep does not publish recalled or leaked questions, and independent faculty review of this item has not been completed yet, so confirm important facts in a standard textbook.