Intramedullary Kirschner Wire Research Articles

Intramedullary Kirschner Wire Fixation for Metatarsal Fractures: A Comprehensive Review of Treatment Outcomes.

Metatarsal fractures pose significant challenges in orthopedic practice, necessitating effective treatment methods to ensure optimal patient outcomes. This comprehensive review focuses on intramedullary Kirschner wire fixation as a promising intervention for metatarsal fractures. Beginning with an overview of metatarsal fractures and the imperative for effective treatments, the review delves into intramedullary fixation's definition, historical background, advantages, and disadvantages. Indications for its use in metatarsal fractures are discussed, providing a foundation for understanding its application. The surgical technique section outlines critical aspects, including patient selection criteria and preoperative planning. Before presenting a detailed step-by-step procedure for intramedullary Kirschner wire fixation, anesthesia considerations are explored. Emphasizing precision, fluoroscopic guidance, and meticulous postoperative care, this section provides insights for surgeons and healthcare practitioners. Considerations for rehabilitation follow, addressing postoperative care, expected recovery timelines, and physical therapy recommendations. Early mobilization, weight-bearing guidelines, and a structured rehabilitation program play pivotal roles in recovery. In the conclusion, key findings are summarized, highlighting the efficacy of intramedullary Kirschner wire fixation, its advantages, and recommendations for clinical practice. Additionally, areas for future research are identified, guiding further exploration and refinement of this surgical approach. This review is valuable for clinicians, researchers, and healthcare practitioners involved in metatarsal fracture management, contributing to the evolution of treatment strategies and improving patient care.

To Bury or Not to Bury the K-wires After Fixation of Both Bone Forearm Fractures in Patients Younger Than 11 Years Old: A Randomized Controlled Trial.

The primary objective was to compare the re-fracture incidence of both radius and ulna fracture in 2 groups treated using intramedullary Kirschner wires (K-wires) where the wires were exposed in group I and buried in group II. The secondary objective was to compare the final functional outcomes and complications incidence. Between March 2019 and February 2021, 60 pediatric patients with unstable radius and ulna fractures amenable to surgical intervention using intramedullary K-wires were randomized into group I (K-wires were exposed above the skin by 2cm) or group II (K-wires were buried under the skin). In group I, K-wires were removed in the outpatient clinic, while in group II, they were removed under general anesthesia as a day-case procedure. Functional outcome per Price criteria was reported at 1-year follow-up. Included patients had a mean age of 7.6 years (range: 5 to 10y). The mean operative time was significantly higher in group II (32.33±7.51 vs. 36.77±8.70min, P =0.03), with no difference regarding intraoperative x-ray exposure (43.12±15.52 vs. 41.6±11.96s, P =0.67). Fracture union was achieved after a mean of 44±2.6 days in group I and 43±1.87 days in group II, with no difference between both groups ( P =0.34). One patient had re-fracture in group I and no patients in group II; however, the difference was insignificant ( P =0.12). Infection occurred in 2 patients in each group. All patients reported excellent scores per Price criteria and achieved full wrist and elbow range of motion compared with the contralateral noninjured side. Exposed implants are a safe option when dealing with forearm fractures in patients younger than 11 years old, with the added advantage of fewer hospital admissions. Furthermore, it had a similar complication rate and functional outcomes compared with buried implants. ClinicalTrials.gov, NCT03906929. Level II.

Comparison of Joshi's external stabilization system and Kirschner wire fixation technique for extra-articular metacarpal fractures

Hand fractures, especially metacarpals and phalanges, account for 15% of emergency department admissions. Metacarpal fractures can be treated using various algorithms. Hand fractures have been treated with K wire fixation, micro plates, and external fixator application devices. A successful functional outcome requires surgical intervention with good fixation principles and a rigid system that allows early mobilization. JESS is a simple, lightweight fixation that can be used with splints or converted to dynamic mobilization units. In open fractures, JESS rigidly fixes bones. Compress, neutralize, or distract a fracture fragment to aggressively treat bone and soft tissue injuries. Moving the proximal and distal joints instantly reduces edema, capsular fibrosis, joint stiffness, and muscle atrophy. Kirschner wires are the easiest, cheapest, and most versatile hand injury treatment. They can be percutaneously introduced. It allows early movements without surgical stress This study compares intramedullary Kirschner wires and Joshi’s external fixator device for unstable extra-articular metacarpal fractures.

Analysis of three minimally invasive methods in the treatment of the fifth metacarpal neck fracture

To explore the effective method of applying Chinese medicine manipulative repositioning Kirschner wire fixation for minimally invasive treatment of fractures of the neck of the fifth metacarpal. From January 2018 to November 2021, 90 patients with closed fractures of the neck of the fifth metacarpal bone were treated minimally invasively with closed repositioning Kirschner wires, all fractures AO type was type A. All patients were divided into three groups according to the mode of internal fixation involving 30 cases in the crossed Kirschner's wire group, 30 cases in the transverse Kirschner's wire group, 30 patients in the intramedullary Kirschner's wire group. By comparison, gender, age, disease duration, and preoperative neck-stem angle were not significant. The postoperative fifth metacarpal neck-stem angles, postoperative fifth metacarpophalangeal joint flexion mobility and fifth metacarpophalangeal joint extension hyperextension angles were compared among three groups. The overall clinical efficacy was evaluated according to the patient outcomes of surgery-hand/arm(POS-Hand/Arm) scoring system. All patients had 12-month follow-up and achieved bony union without malunion. There was no significant difference in the 5th metacarpal neck-stem angle, the fifth metacarpophalangeal joint flexion angle and the fifth metacarpophalangeal joint extension hyperextension angles among three groups at 12 months after surgery(P>0.05). There was no significant difference in physical activity and symptom scores in POS-Hand/Arm scores at 12 months after surgery(P>0.05), psychological status and aesthetic score among three groups(P<0.05) and between cross and transverse Kirschner wire groups(P>0.05). The three POS-Hand/Arm total scores were statistically different(P<0.05), between the crossed and transverse(P>0.05), and the intramedullary group had the highest POS-Hand/Arm scores. All three techniques of Kristener's wire fixation could achieve minimally invasive treatment, and patients have need for cosmetic and early activity, and the author recommend minimally invasive intramedullary fixation with manipulative repositioned Kristen wires as the preferred procedure.

Analysis of the treatment of comminuted fractures of tubular bones of the extremities in cats and dogs

Surgical resolution of comminuted fractures of tubular bones is an urgent issue for practicing veterinarians. Comminuted fractures account for 52%, transverse fractures for 8.7%, oblique fractures for 26.1%, and compression fractures for 13.0% of total canine fractures. Thus, comminuted fractures of the tubular bones of the extremities are the most frequent. There are several types of bone fixation in comminuted fractures. Many authors do not recommend using of intramedullary osteosynthesis in the treatment of this type of fracture since it is not possible to connect all bone fractures. The aim of this study was to compare the methods of surgical treatment of comminuted fractures in dogs and cats admitted to the clinics and to choose the most optimal ways of treatment. In total, 4,396 cats and dogs were admitted to the clinic, excluding those admitted for vaccination. The surgical department received 35% of the total number of animals. Patients with bone and joint pathology accounted for 19% of all surgical causes and to 7% of all animals admitted to the clinic. In the group of 9 cats and 9 dogs three main types of fracture were diagnosed: transverse fracture in 6 animals (4 dogs and 2 cats), oblique fracture in 4 animals (3 dogs and 1 cat) and comminuted fracture in 8 animals (2 dogs and 6 cats). The article is illustrated with X-rays images of the clinical cases presented. In order to perform osteosynthesis using a single-plane bilateral external fixator, the authors injected 2-3 Kirchner spokes each into the proximal and distal bone fragments by drilling through the bone while perforating soft tissue on both sides. The ends of the spokes on both sides were bent towards the opposite fragment, parallel to the bone axis, at a distance of 1.0 to 3.0 cm from the skin surface. The ends of the spokes form the rods of a bilateral single-plane fixator. The rod-forming spokes are tightened with wire serrations on 3-4 levels and additionally fixed with fast hardening plastic (turbocast) or bone cement (Palacos, GMW, Osteobond) while controlling the fracture reposition. Combination with wire serclages, sutures, compression screw or intramedullary Kirschner wire osteosynthesis is possible.

Transepiphyseal percutaneous intramedullary Kirschner wire (TEPIK) in diametaphyseal radius fractures (DMRF) – experiences in 59 children

BackgroundDistal forearm fractures are widespread in children and adolescents. The radial transition zone between diaphysis and metaphysis is not universally defined. Still, diametaphyseal radius fractures (DMRF) are prone to complications, and a commonly agreed standard for their treatment has yet to be established. MethodsWe report on 59 children with unstable DMRF treated with a transepiphyseal, percutaneous, intramedullary K-wire (TEPIK) from 2010 to 2020. After fracture reduction, the patient's hand is held in palmar flexion. Next, a 1.8-2mm K-wire is inserted just beyond Lister's tubercle through the epiphysis and advanced, crossing the physis straight into the medullary cavity of the diaphysis. We report radiographic geometry before and after the treatment, operation times, course of treatment, functional results, and complications. ResultsWe saw no loss of reduction and no remaining functional deficits. Surgical trainees performed this technique in 71.2%. The mean operating time was 29 minutes. Percutaneous K-wires could be removed without anesthesia or sedation in our outpatient clinic in 81.4%. We saw two refractures after a second high-energy trauma and seven K-wires that migrated subcutaneously because they were cut too short. ConclusionTEPIK is a quick and easy treatment for unstable DMRF. It provides safe management with a single, definite surgery if metal removal of an ulnar ESIN is unnecessary. This study is one of the most extensive series on the surgical treatment of DMRF reported in the literature and presents successful results of TEPIK in the treatment of unstable DMRF.

Functional Outcome of Intramedullary Kirschner Wire Fixation of Unstable Radius-Ulna Fractures in Children

Pediatric patients with unstable radius-ulna fracture can be treated with intramedullary Kirschner wire fixation. Objective: To determine the functional outcome of Intramedullary Kirschner Wire fixation in unstable radius-ulna fractures in children. Methods: All pediatric age patients were enrolled into the study with unstable radius and ulna fracture. Informed consent was taken before study. Proper history, examination and X-rays of the forearm was taken after taking consent from the guardian of the patient. Under general anesthesia and tourniquet, control radius was first fixed through a small volar incision by drilling a k wire at fracture site in radius so that the wire exits on the dorsolateral side of the radius. The fracture was than reduced and the wire tapped with hammer to the radial head. Similarly, ulna was fixed by first drilling the wire up to the olecranon process and after reduction of the fracture down to the styloid process. After checking stability both bones, both wounds were washed with normal saline and closed in reverse order and above elbow cast was applied for three to four weeks. Results: In this study, as per functional outcomes, 5(4.0%) patients had good outcome, 80(64%) patients had excellent outcomes whereas 40(32%) patients had poor outcomes. Conclusions: This study demonstrates excellent functional outcome of Intramedullary Kirschner Wire fixation in unstable both bone forearm fractures in children.

Retrospective comparative analysis between intramedullary kirschner wire fixation and conservative treatment for displaced 5th metacarpal neck fractures

Retrospective comparative analysis between intramedullary kirschner wire fixation and conservative treatment for displaced 5th metacarpal neck fractures

Effects of Focal Cerebellar Injury on Fracture Healing and Oxidative Stress in Rat Model: An Experimental Animal Study.

To examine the effect of cerebellar damage on the process of fracture healing. A total of forty-two male rats were selected at random and subsequently allocated into three distinct groups. The experimentals were divided into two subgroups within each group, with the intention of sacrificing them during the third and sixth weeks. Group 1 had isolated femoral fracture, Group 2 had femoral fracture after craniotomy, and Group 3 had femoral fracture accompanying cerebellar injury after craniotomy. Left femoral fractures in rats in all groups were treated using an intramedullary Kirschner wire. Radiological, histological, and biochemical evaluations were conducted at 3 and 6 weeks to assess the processes of fracture healing. To determine the effects of fracture healing and cerebellar injury on oxidant-antioxidant systems, catalase (CAT), malondialdehyde, superoxide dismutase (SOD), and glutathione peroxidase (GPx) activities were measured. Between the time frame of 3 to 6 weeks, Group 3 had higher radiography scores, alkaline phosphatase levels, callus/ diaphyse ratio, callus improvement, and bone mineral density in comparison to the other groups. The activity of SOD was found to be statistically negligible in all groups, suggesting that SOD does not have a substantial impact on fracture healing in cerebellar injury. However, notable increases in the activity of GPx and CAT enzymes were observed, showing their considerable involvement in the process of fracture healing. Cerebellar injury reduces the oxidative stress in the fracture area and contributes positively to fracture healing by means of radiologically, biochemically and histopathologically.

Comparative study between intramedullary kirschner wires fixation and cast immobilisation in pediatric displaced diaphyseal both bones of forearm fractures

Abstract Background Forearm fractures involving the diaphysis are the third most frequent form of fracture in paediatrics. Conservative management is associated with higher risks of complications; therefore, the author aim to compare Kirschner (K) wire fixation with conservative management. Methods 56 children with displaced diaphyseal ulnar and radial fractures were allocated and randomized into two groups at Kasr Al-Ainy University Hospital: the first group was managed by conservative management with cast immobilisation, and the second group was managed by K wire fixation. The primary outcomes were the degrees of postoperative ulnar and radial angulations, the required time of union, the limitation of movement degrees, and the functional outcomes. The secondary outcome was the rate of complications. Results K wire fixation had better significant results compared with the cast immobilisation regarding the residual radial angulation (P &lt; 0.001), ulnar angulation degree (P &lt; 0.001), the range of movement of forearm supination or supination (P = 0.003), and the functional outcome (P = 0.049); however, the time of union was significantly longer in the K wire group compared with the cast group (P = 0.003). Both groups were not significantly different in the complication rate (P = 0.163). Conclusion Cast immobilisation is safe in managing displaced diaphyseal in both bones of forearm fractures; however, K wire fixation is preferred and shows better results, especially when a good reduction cannot be achieved by conservative cast immobilisation.

The outcome of Radial Neck Fracture Treated with Closed/ Open Reduction and Retrograde Kirschner Wires Fixation in the Paediatric Age Group

Background Radial neck fractures in children are rare injuries, representing 1 to 5% of all elbow pediatric fractures. Most of them are non-displaced or slightly displaced and treated conservatively. Severely displaced or angulated radial neck fractures (Judet type III and IV fractures or O’Brien type III radial neck fractures) requires surgical treatment.&#x0D; Objective To study the clinical and radiological outcomes of fractures following closed or open reduction and percutaneous intramedullary stabilization of the displaced radial neck fracture in children.&#x0D; Method There were 24 children with displaced radial neck fracture Judet type II, III and IV fractures O’Brien type II, III who underwent closed reduction and retrograde intramedullary stabilization with Kirschner wires. Functional outcomes were evaluated based on of Mayo Elbow Performance Score.&#x0D; Result The mean age of patients was 8.42 ± 1.82 years with boys 15(62.5%) and girls 9(37.5%) in number. An excellent result was seen in 5(20.8%) cases and good results in 15(62.5%) cases according to the Mayo elbow performance score. Analyzing a passive and active range of motion, 5 had excellent results, 15 had good results and 4 had fair results compared to the normal side. Radiological evaluation showed fracture healing in excellent or good alignment according to Ursei radiological evaluation classification.&#x0D; Conclusion Closed reduction and retrograde intramedullary Kirschner wires stabilization for the displaced radial neck fracture provide excellent clinical and radiological results with few complications.

Comparison of Frequency of Union with Percutaneous Intramedullary Kirschner Wire versus Interfragmentary Screw Fixation in Displaced Extra-articular Metacarpal Fractures

Objective: To compare the frequency of union in cases treated with percutaneous intramedullary kirschner wire versus interfragmentary screw fixation of displaced extra-articular metacarpal fractures. Study Design: Randomized controlled trial. Place and Duration: The Department of Othropedic surgery, Ghurki Trust Teaching Hospital Lahore, Pakistan from May 2021 to November 2021. Methodology: A total of 70 cases (35 in each group) of both genders aged 18-60 years with displaced extra-articular metacarpal fracture were included. Surgery was performed with the patient under peripheral anesthesia adopting pneumatic tourniquet and image intensification. Patients were randomly divided into 2 groups, undergoing either percutaneous intramedullary K-wire fixation or interfragmentary Screw Fixation. Patients were followed up till 16th week to see the union. Results: The mean age of patients in K-wire group was 37.89±9.34 years and in screw fixation group was 40.17±12.82 years. In K-wire group, there were 24 (68.57%) male and 11(31.4%) female cases while in Screw fixation group there were 17 (48.6%) male and 18 (51.4%) female cases. In K-wire group, 20 (57.1%) cases reported union while in Screw fixation group, 33 (94.3%) cases reported union at the final follow up (p&lt;0.001). Practical Implications: Interfragmentary screw fixation in displace extra-articular metacarpal fractures yielded better outcomes. Conclusion: Significantly more cases treated with interfragmentary screw fixation of displaced extra-articular metacarpal fractures reported union in comparison to percutaneous intramedullary kirschner wire. Keywords: Metacarpal fractures, internal fixation, intramedullary K-wire, screw fixation, union.

Management of gunshot-related forearm bone defect by sequential internal fixation and deferred bone grafting: experience from a tertiary hospital in Mogadishu

Gunshot-related forearm fractures are rare injuries, usually incurring bone defect. The aim of the study was to report clinical and radiological results for sequential internal fixation and bone grafting in acute civilian forearm gunshot fractures with bone defect. The procedure involves staged techniques consisting of bone debridement, soft-tissue closure and temporary intramedullary Kirschner wire fixation, followed by deferred bone grafting. To our knowledge, the present study is the first to investigate this surgical sequence in such injuries. Between June 2018 and September 2019, 6 civilian cases (5 male, 1 female) with a mean age of 26 years (range, 19–36 years) were operated on by sequential internal fixation and bone grafting for acute forearm gunshot fractures with segmental bone defect. Demographics, injury characteristics and surgical features were recorded. The Tang classification system was used to evaluate clinical and radiological results at final follow-up. Mean follow-up was 27 months (range: 21–32 months). Defect location was in the radius in 4 patients and in the ulna in 2, with a mean defect size of 3.75 cm (range, 2–8 cm). Union was achieved in 5 patients, at a mean 7 months (range, 4-10 months). Functional outcome was excellent in 4 patients, good in 1 and fair in 1. Sequential internal fixation and bone grafting seems a reliable option in the treatment of acute forearm gunshot fractures with bone defect. Level of evidenceLevel IV – Retrospective study.

FUNCTIONAL OUTCOME OF DISPLACED AND UNSTABLE DIAPHYSEAL FRACTURES OF BOTH BONES OF FOREARM IN CHILDREN TREATED WITH INTRAMEDULLARY KIRSCHNER WIRE FIXATION.

Introduction Diaphyseal fractures of forearm are very common in children. 90% of the fractures can be managed with closed reduction and cast immobilisation. Surgical intervention is needed in displaced, unstable fractures to prevent angulation and rotation deformity. This work is done to analyse the Functional outcome of displaced and unstable diaphyseal fracture of both bones of forearm in children treated with intramedullary kirschner wire fixation in Department of Orthopaedics, Adichunchanagiri institute of Medical Sciences,B G Nagara, Mandya. In ou Method r series of 30 cases there were 22 males and 8 females, maximum age of 12 years and minimum age of 3 years with mean age of 8.63 years. Fracture reduction and fixation were done with closed reduction and percutaneous nailing or mini open reduction and intramedullary fixation. Our average union time was 8.6 weeks and average kirschner wire removal time was 12.23 weeks. Patients were closely monitored for compartment syndrome and osteomyelitis. Th Results e functional outcome based on Price criteria was excellent in 83.3% (25) of cases, good in 10% (3) of cases and fair in 6.7% (20 of cases. There was no case with poor outcome. 2 patients had refracure other 5 patients had minor complication (pin tract infection(3 cases) , superficial radial nerve injury(1 case) and delayed union(1 case). From this study we consider that intramedullary kirschner wire fixation for unstable and displaced diaphyseal fracture of both bones of forearm in children is an excellent treatment modality. 1.Treatment of displaced and unstable diaphyseal fract Conclusion ures of the both bone forearm with Kirschner wires is an effective method of maintaining reduction 2.This is simple for fracture fixation with preservation of fracture haematoma. 3.Shorter period of surgery with minimal exposure . 4.Minimum invasive surgery with minimum expertise.

Retrograde Intramedullary Kirschner Wire Fixation as an Alternative for Treating Distal Fibular Shaft Fractures Combined with Distal Tibial Pilon Fractures.

Treatment or management techniques for pilon fractures are associated with high complication rates and poor outcomes. No consensus exists regarding the optimal surgical option for pilon fractures, especially for pilon fractures combined with distal fibular fractures. Accordingly, we explored the use of fibular fixation for treating pilon fractures involving distal fibular shaft fractures. We hypothesized that retrograde intramedullary Kirschner wire (K-wire) fixation is a suitable alternative technique for distal fibular fixation. We retrospectively reviewed the data of 156 patients who underwent surgery for pilon fractures at our hospital from May 2013 to May 2021. The radiographic and functional outcomes were comparable between the fibular intramedullary nailing (Group A; n = 80) and the fibular plating (Group B; n = 76) groups. Groups A and B differed significantly in total hospitalization time (11.4 vs. 18.2 days, p = 0.024), length of postoperative admission (6.8 vs. 11.4 days, p = 0.012), and total admission cost (USD 3624 vs. USD 6145, p = 0.004). We also noted that poor Olerud and Molander ankle scores were significantly associated with age (p = 0.008), smoking (p = 0.012), and preoperative admission length (p = 0.018). Retrograde intramedullary K-wire fixation produced a comparable 12-month functional outcome to plate fixation for distal fibular shaft fractures, rendering it a viable alternative method based on soft tissue condition.

The effect of theranekron on femur fracture healing in an experimental rat model.

Objectives The aim of this study was to investigate the radiological, biomechanical, histopathological and immunohistochemical effects of Theranekron on fracture healing in an experimental rat model.Materials and methods Forty-eight male albino Wistar rats were used. Four groups were formed, with 12 rats in each of Theranekron groups 1 and 2, and control groups 1 and 2. After a fracture was created in the right femur of the rats included in the study, fixation was performed with an intramedullary Kirschner wire. Theranekron was administered subcutaneously to Theranekron groups 1 and 2 at a dose of 0.3 mg/kg on days 0, 5 and 10. After radiographic analysis of the femurs of Theranekron group 1 and control group 1 rats at four weeks of the study was performed, both groups were divided into two equal subgroups (six femurs in each group). Histopathological and immunohistochemical examinations were performed in one subgroup and biomechanical examination in the other subgroup. At the end of six weeks, the rats in Theranekron group 2 and control group 2 were evaluated after applying the same procedure as in the fourth week.Results When the mean radiological scores of the Theranekron and control groups were compared, a statistically significant difference was found in favor of the Theranekron group at four and six weeks (p=0.028 and p=0.006, respectively). At four weeks, statistically significant higher biomechanical forces were obtained in the Theranekron group compared to the control group (p=0.030). In the histopathological evaluation, the inflammation value of the control group at four weeks was statistically significantly higher than the Theranekron group (p=0.027). The angiogenesis, osteoblast proliferation, and bone formation values of the Theranekron group were significantly higher than the control group (p=0.014, p=0.014, and p=0.005, respectively). At six weeks, the bone formation values of the Theranekron group were statistically significantly higher than the control group (p=0.021). The difference between the Theranekron group and the control group scores of the immunohistochemical evaluation were statistically significantly different at four and six weeks (p=0.006 and p=0.011, respectively).Conclusion Theranekron may play a role in accelerating fracture healing by reducing acute inflammation process in the early period of fracture union, increasing fracture strength, angiogenesis, osteoblast proliferation, and bone formation.

Fifth Metatarsal Bunionette Correction Using a Stable Intramedullary Device

Category:Lesser ToesIntroduction/Purpose:Fifth metatarsal osteotomies for correction of a bunionette deformity are stabilized with a variety of techniques. The fifth metatarsal is a small bone with a unique blood supply and anatomy. Most of the described osteotomies are distal, making stable fixation technically demanding. The use of minimal incision surgery (MIS), also presents further challenges in the placement of stable fixation and current recommendations are to use either no fixation or intramedullary Kirschner wire fixation. Extensive translational osteotomies have not had documentation on healing as have first metatarsal osteotomies. This paper presents the results of 2 fellowship-trained orthopedic surgeons utilizing a new surgical implant that is both intramedullary and intramedullary. The patients were assessed with an endpoint of radiographic healing.Methods:A consecutive series of 21 de-identified patients who underwent a fifth metatarsal osteotomy for bunionette correction were radiographically followed until healing. Each patient was pre-operatively classified following the Coughlin classification of bunionette deformity. Postoperative radiographic assessments were made to include: 1. Bridging bone 2. The formation of medial bridging from the metatarsal head to the shaft. 3. Change in the 4-5 Intermetatarsal angle. Also, there was made a notation of complications: Time to weight-bearing, pain, and function were not assessed. There was only a small sample of patients that were treated with an isolated bunionette procedure. The other procedures were impactful and would skew the functional results. We also evaluated for hardware complaints that would need removal.Results:19 patients, 21 feet were evaluated with ages ranging from 51-77 years (Avg 63 years). 17 women and 2 men. Only one patient was a revision of prior surgery. Only 4 patients had an isolated bunionette correction. The other surgical procedures including; double osteotomy bunionectomy, distal metatarsal osteotomies (MIS), phalanx osteotomies of the great and lesser toes, Lapidus bunionectomy, first metatarsophalangeal arthrodesis. Coughlin grading; one Grade one, ten Grade 2, ten Grade 3. The average time to radiographic healing was 8 weeks. 5 patients underwent a traditional open incision and a chevron osteotomy with a saw, the remainder of the osteotomies were percutaneous transverse osteotomies performed with a 2x12mm Shannon burr.The mean 4-5 intermetatarsal angle improved from 10 degrees preoperatively to 3 degrees at follow-up. The amount of shift varied whether the lateral eminence was or was not excised. The numbers are not large and meaningful statistics are difficult to extrapolate.Conclusion:This is the first documented use of a novel surgical implant designed specifically for fifth metatarsal osteotomies used for bunionette correction. The implant is simple to use, provides for stability to prevent malunion and nonunions. It is low profile and has not caused irritation requiring removal in this pilot group. It is versatile and can be used with either an MIS approach and a transverse osteotomy or a classic open incision with a chevron osteotomy.

Relative Strengths of Intramedullary K-Wire Techniques for Digital Deformities

Hammertoe deformity correction surgery is one of the most common procedures performed by foot and ankle surgeons. Recent foot and ankle medical literature presents conflicting opinions regarding the optimal intramedullary fixation device and techniques for use in digital deformity correction. There are a number of varying fixation constructs of intramedullary Kirschner wire fixation reported for proximal interphalangeal joint arthrodesis; however, there are no reports of relative loading strength of the fixations. In this study, 90 sawbone models were divided equally into 3 groups of different intramedullary Kirschner wire fixation techniques: Group A- single straight, Group B- single bent, Group C- double bent. Each fixation construct underwent controlled axial loading and failure points were observed. Results showed no significant difference in load failure from all 3 groups with mean maximum force of Group A = 20N, Group B = 19.1N, and Group C =17.5N. We conclude that all Kirschner wire fixation options for digital deformity correction, will provide similar resistance to sagittal plane axial loads.

Single Antegrade Intramedullary Kirschner Wire Fixation For Transverse Metacarpal Shaft Fractures: A Retrospective Review

Introduction: Fractures of the metacarpals are frequently encountered. Transverse metacarpal shaft fractures are inherently unstable and amenable to surgical intervention. Few studies have evaluated outcomes of patients with a singular transverse metacarpal shaft fracture surgically corrected with an antegrade intramedullary Kirschner (K) wire. We present our series of patients and their outcomes performed by a single surgeon. Materials and Methods: A retrospective chart review of cases at our institution was performed on transverse metacarpal fracture treated with an intramedullary K-wire. Fifteen patients met the inclusion criteria. Data extracted included metacarpal involved, laterality, sex, age, if removal of hardware was performed, time from initial injury to surgery, tourniquet time, complications, range of motion, clinical outcome, among others. Results: All fractures occurred about the right hand with 7 involving the small finger metacarpal, 4 involving the index, 3 involving the ring, and 1 involving the middle. The average patient age was 25 years (range: 18 to 58 y). The average tourniquet time was 16 minutes (range: 10 to 20 min). There were no intraoperative complications and 1 patient had hardware removed at 8 weeks due to proximal pin site pain. All patients achieved clinical union with a return of full function. Discussion: Single antegrade intramedullary K-wire fixation is a simple, reliable, and potentially cost-effective treatment option for transverse metacarpal shaft fractures. Further research is needed to determine long-term outcomes and formal cost analysis. Our series indicate this technique can be safely utilized, with a low risk of complications and good clinical outcomes. Level of Evidence: Level IV—therapeutic.

The effects of intravenous and local tranexamic acid on bone healing: An experimental study in the rat tibia fracture model

BackgroundTranexamic acid (TXA) is an antifibrinolytic agent. It has long been used to reduce the need for perioperative blood loss in various surgeries. Few studies have investigated the effects of local and intravenous administration of TXA on fracture healing. Thus, we aimed to evaluate if TXA influences hematoma volume and fracture healing in the rat tibia fracture model. Materials and methodsA tibia fracture with intramedullary Kirschner wire fixation was created in all animals. Rats were randomly divided into three groups as local TXA, intravenous TXA, and control. A dose of 50 mg/kg local and intravenous TXA was administered to the study groups. Hematoma volume was measured on the first and third days of the study. The animals were sacrificed on the 14th and 21st days for radiological and histopathological examinations. ResultsThere was no significant difference between the groups in terms of hematoma volume measured on Day 1 and the mean decrease of hematoma volume from Day 1 to Day 3 (p = 0.158 and p = 0.239, respectively). The total radiological scores of Day 14 and Day 21 were similar in all groups (p > 0.05 for all). There was also no significant difference between the histological staging of the fracture repair on Day 14 and Day 21 for all groups (p > 0.05 for all). ConclusionOur findings suggest that TXA's local and intravenous application makes no significant difference in fracture healing.