Rupture of the Triceps Tendon with Olecranon Bursitis

Abstract

Rupture of the triceps tendon is rare, and no previous report of its association with olecranon bursitis was found in the literature. A previously healthy 72-year-old man fell from a stationary bicycle and was examined by his family physician. Calcification over the olecranon area with an intact triceps tendon was revealed. Two months later the patient presented with triceps rupture and weakness of elbow extension with olecranon bursitis. Grossly, the pathologic lesion consisted of synovial frond proliferation and invasion of the cut end of a tendon. A "collar stud-shaped" bursa was found in front of and behind the triceps tendon and across a 3-cm gap in the tendon. The advancement was completed by splitting the tendon in partial thickness proximal to the cut end. The flap was turned down and anchored to the olecranon through drill holes. The end result was good return of function. Patients with chronic olecranon bursa problems should be carefully examined for triceps function. The gap in the tendon can be treated by mobilizing the tendon in the manner described.