A Prospective Study Comparing the Infection Rate Between Buried vs Exposed Kirschner Wires in Hand and Wrist Fixations.

INTRODUCTION

Kirschner wires (K-wires) are used in fracture fixations but are often associated with pin tract infections. This prospective study compared the infection rate between buried and exposed K-wires in closed injuries of the wrist and hands in individuals with no comorbidities.

METHODS

Fifteen patients were recruited with a total of 41 K-wires (21 buried K-wires; 20 exposed K-wires). Clinical and radiographic evidence of infection was assessed at three months based on the Modified Oppenheim classification.

RESULTS

Two out of 21 wires in the buried group developed grade 4 infection, while 20 wires in the exposed group did not have any significant infection. No significant difference in infection rate based on K-wire size or number in both groups.

CONCLUSION

There is no significant difference in infection rate between buried and exposed K-wires in healthy individuals with closed injuries of the wrist and hand.