The Effects of Using K-Wire or Titanium Elastic Nails on Clinical and Radiological Outcomes in the Métaizeau Closed Reduction Technique

Abstract

Aim The purpose of this study was to compare the effects of using Kirschner-wire (K-wire) or titanium elastic nails (TEN) on the functional results of patients treated with the Métaizeau closed reduction technique, which is a popular treatment modality for pediatric radial neck fractures (PRNF). Methods Patients who underwent the Métaizeau closed reduction technique for PRNF between May 2017 and May 2019 were assessed retrospectively. The Judet classification was used for the PRNF classification. The study consisted of patients who underwent the Métaizeau technique for Judet Type IV PRNFs and had at least 12 months of follow-up. Results This study enrolled a total of 43 patients, 22 females and 21 males. Their mean age was 8.69 ± 2.3 at the time of surgery. The mean MEPS of patients undergoing K-wire surgery was 89.50, while the mean MEPS of patients undergoing TEN surgery was 92.83. There was no statistically significant difference between the two groups in terms of MEPS. When the complication rates of the two groups were evaluated, there was no statistically significant difference between them. The cost per patient for TEN was $40. The cost per patient for the K-wire was $1. Conclusion The effect of K-wire or TEN used in the Métaizeau closed reduction technique on clinical outcomes is similar, and K-wire is more cost-effective.