Olecranon

The Olecranon is the large, bony prominence of the ulna, a bone in the forearm. It is situated at the upper end of the ulna and forms the pointed portion of the elbow. The olecranon serves as an attachment site for the triceps brachii muscle, which extends the forearm.

Anatomy

The olecranon is a large, thick, and curved bony process. It is the point of the elbow and forms a joint with the humerus, the bone of the upper arm. The olecranon is covered by a bursa, a fluid-filled sac that allows smooth movement between the bone and overlying skin.

Function

The olecranon serves as a lever for the elbow joint. It provides an attachment site for the triceps brachii muscle, which is the primary extensor of the forearm. The olecranon also protects the elbow joint from damage.

Clinical significance

Injuries to the olecranon, such as fractures or bursitis, can cause pain and limit movement of the elbow. Olecranon bursitis, also known as student's elbow, is a condition in which the bursa becomes inflamed and swollen.

See also

• Elbow
• Ulna
• Humerus
• Triceps brachii muscle
• Olecranon bursitis

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  Olecranon
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  Diagram of the elbow joint
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  Olecranon process of the ulna
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  Elbow joint, showing olecranon
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  Muscles of the forearm, posterior view
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  Ligaments of the elbow joint