Fixation of distal radial epiphyseal fracture: Comparison of K-wire and prebent intramedullary nail. (February 2016)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Cai, Haoqi; Wang, Zhigang; Cai, Haiqing
• Is Part Of: Journal of international medical research. Volume 44:Number 1(2016:Feb.)
• Page Start: 122
• Page End: 130
• Publication Date: 2016-02
• Subjects: Distal radius fracture -- children -- titanium flexible nails -- pre-bent -- K-wire fixation; Medicine -- Periodicals; Pharmacology -- Periodicals; 610.5
• DOI: 10.1177/0300060514566650
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0300-0605

Abstract

Objective: To compare the use of crossed K-wire and prebent intramedullary nail techniques for the fixation of distal radius metaphyseal fracture in children. Methods: Intraoperative and follow-up data for children with distal radius metaphyseal fracture, treated using crossed K-wire or prebent intramedullary nail fixation, were retrospectively analysed. Patient groups were matched for age, sex and clinical parameters (fracture location, affected side, fracture type). Results: Patients treated using prebent intramedullary nail fixation ( n = 52) had significantly shorter surgery duration, fewer intraoperative X-radiographs, and lower prevalence of postoperative redisplacement and malalignment deformity than those treated using crossed K-wire fixation ( n = 52). Both techniques resulted in similar postoperative complications and recovery of forearm rotation. Conclusions: Prebent intramedullary nail fixation has a better functional outcome than crossed K-wire fixation in the treatment of distal radial epiphyseal fracture in children.