Comparative mechanical properties of various Kirschner wire configurations in transverse and oblique phalangeal fractures.

A biomechanical study assessed the comparative mechanical properties of various wire configurations used in transverse and oblique phalangeal fractures. The configurations included crossed, oblique, and intramedullary wire techniques using 0.028-inch diameter (d) or 0.035-inch d Kirschner (K) wires. Six different configurations were tested in both the oblique fracture pattern and in the transverse fracture pattern. The mechanical properties were determined after either oblique or transverse osteotomy and fixation of the proximal phalanx. Each fixation technique was tested in apex palmar, apex dorsal, and lateral bending, as well as in torsion and distraction. The results showed that of the configurations tested, four crossed 0.028-inch d Kirschner wires obtained the highest rigidity in the transverse fracture pattern and three oblique 0.035-inch d Kirschner wires obtained the highest rigidity in the oblique fracture pattern.