Adult Monteggia and Olecranon Fracture Dislocations of the Elbow

Monteggia fractures and olecranon fracture dislocations represent complex injuries with distinct patterns of bony and soft tissue involvement. Fractures of the proximal ulna and olecranon process may lead to disruption of the proximal radioulnar joint and/or ulnohumeral joint. The keys to treatment are recognition of the pattern of injury and formation of an algorithmic surgical plan to address all components of the injury process. Complications are common and may be related to the injury spectrum itself and/or inadequate fracture alignment or fixation.