Tension Band Wire Acknowledgements: Lisa K. Cannada, MD
Ortho Jeopardy
The Answer: What is TBW? Please decide if the answer is correct for the following fractures
YES/NO?
YES/NO? Was it Right?
Case Example 2.5 monthsRevision
YES/NO?
What is the Future?
2.5 weeks
Symptomatic Hardware
Happier!
YES/NO?
Critique?
2 weeks
Revision at 3 weeks
YES/NO?
Critique?
First Post Op: WHY?
Follow Up
When Is K-wire and Tension Banding Too much?
Surgical Decisions l Comminution of joint surface Ý SimpleTension band wire Ý ComminutedPlate fixation l Orientation of fracture line Ý TransverseTension band wire Ý ObliquePlate fixation
Purpose of the Tension Band l Fractures require mechanical stability to heal l Fractures respond well to compression Ý Evaluate dorsal cortex l Fractures react adversely to repeated tension/distraction l Tension band converts tensile forces of triceps into compressive forces
Technique l Reduce Fracture l Drill hole for wire with a 2.0 mm drill dorsal l Tension with elbow extended l Tension Band Wire Ý figure of “8”
Tension Band Fixation Tips l Place wires parallel to each other and perpendicular to fx l Insert in a proximal dorsal to distal anterior Ý Remember you have to advance wires so leave room! l Tip: Check ROM prior to closing