Intramedullary Kirschner Wire Fixation for Forearm Fractures in Children

ABSTRACT

PURPOSE: To evaluate the clinical and radiological results of intramedullary fixation using Kirschner wires (K-wires) for the treatment of unstable forearm fractures in children. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Forty-three children who underwent intramedullary fixation using K-wires for the treatment of a forearm bone fracture were evaluated. The rodiological results were based on the time to union and angular deformity at last follow-up. The clinical results were analyzed according to Price criteria. RESULTS: Average union time was 6.9 weeks. Preoperatively, average angular deformity of radius is 11.4 degrees in anteroposterior (AP) view and 15.3 degrees in lateral view. In case of the ulna, arerage angular deformity was 8.3 degrees in AP view and 12.7 degrees in lateral view. At last follow up, average angular deformity of radius was 1.5 degrees in AP view and 1.6 degrees in lateral view. In case of the ulna, arerage angular deformity was 1.3 degrees in AP view and 2.5 degrees in lateral view. According to the criteria of Price et al., 42 patients (97%) were excellent and one patient (3%) was good. No specific complication was observed. CONCLUSION: An intramedullary fixation using K-wires is an attractive treatment option for unstable forearm fractures in children in terms of safety, excellent cosmesis, short hospitalization, easy hardware removal, and providing excellent radiological and clinical results.