A novel technique for the removal of retained Kirschner wires utilizing a cannulated drill bit

Abstract

A 35 year-old male with past history of severe open femur and tibia injury presented years after fracture fixation with a symptomatic retained Kirschner wire in his proximal tibia. A cannulated drill bit was used for removal after unsuccessful attempts using hand-held instruments. This case presents a technique for removal of a k-wire retained in bone for several years. This technique can be replicated in similar settings with cannulated drill bits from other commonly used orthopaedic device companies. Intraoperative removal of k-wires can be problematic, however, this technique offers a solution that balances implant removal and limiting destruction of surrounding tissue.