Operative treatment of metacarpal and phalangeal fractures with Kirschner wire fixation: A review

Abstract

Although hand fractures are most common fractures treated in orthopedic practice, many practicians treat them as trivial injuries. Improperly managed they can cause consequences and impair hand function. Metacarpal and phalangeal fractures are classified based on geometry, anatomic localization and wound presence and treatment depend on mechanism of injury. Many of them can be treated nonoperatively with reposition and immobilization, but in some cases osteosynthesis is a method of choice. Surgeon can choose various range of fixation material, and choice depends on fracture type and surgeons affinity. Kirschner wire fixation is one of the most frequently used operative procedure for hand fracture treatment. It provides good stability, early mobilization and excellent functional result.

Bennett

“…The thumb is an important part of the hand accounting for 40% of the hand function [7] . The first CMC joint is a unique articulation between base of first metacarpal and trapezium forming saddle shaped joint thereby, allowing greater mobility and functional significance [8] .…”

“…Long term consequences may result in CMC joint arthritis [2] . Stiffness can occur depending on duration and position of immobilization [7] .…”

Comparison and predictive factors analysis for efficacy and safety of Kirschner wire, anatomical plate fixation and cannulated screw in treating patients with open calcaneal fractures

“…Among these fixations, Kirschner wire, a kind of frequently-used material for internal fixation, has been reported to achieve promising outcomes with less functional impairment compare with other fixations. [9,10] As for anatomical plate fixation, it is often used in open reduction and internal fixation and able to offer sufficient support to the impaired calcaneus with a suited angle, while post-treated complications still existed, such as deep infection, amputation and other complications. [11,12] As to cannulated screw fixation, it is a simple method allowing early mobilization and weight-bearing, moreover, it produces better subtalar and ankle joint range of motion.…”