Technical Notes and Tips: A Simple and Cost-Effective Method of Protecting Unburied K-Wire Ends

Abstract

We propose a simple, effective and inexpensive method of protecting unburied Kirschner-wire ends for hand surgery. This technique involves bending the protruding wire 180° to form a loop, removing the rubber gasket from a 1-ml syringe and sliding this gasket over the wire loop in order to provide the required bulk and padding (Fig. 1). The gasket is then secured onto the loop with a 3/0 nylon suture. A less bulky dressing can then also be used on top of the protector. This technique prevents accidental injuries from sharp wire ends, and limits wire migration. Figure 1 The proposed technique of securing protruding K-wire ends