Distal triceps: find the olecranon attachment

Question 1Where does the triceps tendon insert?

1. aThe radial head
2. bThe olecranon of the ulna
3. cThe medial epicondyle
4. dThe coronoid process

Question 2What is a "flake" on the X-ray in a triceps injury?

1. aA normal ossification centre in every adult
2. bA small bone fragment pulled off the olecranon by the tendon
3. cA foreign body
4. dA loose cartilage body

Question 3Why can a triceps rupture be missed?

1. aIt only affects children
2. bUltrasound cannot see the elbow
3. cIt always causes no pain
4. dThe patient may still extend the elbow with gravity

Question 4Which finding suggests a complete tear?

1. aA smooth olecranon cortex
2. bFluid only in the olecranon bursa
3. cA continuous fibrillar tendon
4. dA gap at the insertion with the tendon end pulled back

Question 5What can mimic or hide a triceps tear?

1. aColour Doppler
2. bThe ulnar nerve only
3. cA normal fat pad
4. dSwelling, olecranon bursitis and anisotropy