Intramedullary k-wire fixation of metacarpal fractures

The majority of metacarpal fractures can be treated conservatively. Nevertheless, surgical treatment is justified in certain cases. Palmar dislocation of >30° and shortening of >5 mm will significantly affect extension and flexion of the hand. Consequently, surgical treatment is indicated. The aim of our study was to evaluate the clinical results of intramedullary Kirschner-wire fixation of metacarpal fractures.

In a retrospective study we analyzed the clinical results of 35 patients with metacarpal fractures that had been treated by closed reduction and elastic fixation with at least two intramedullary k-wires.

Most of the patients were young, with good bone quality and low anesthetic risk, and they had suffered the fractures as a result of a direct trauma. Predominantly uncomplicated, the fractures were metaphyseal, subcapital and of the fifth metacarpal bone (750.3-B1 fractures). Surgical treatment was indicated for a palmar axis dislocation of >20° or if a rotatory deficiency was present. Metacarpal joint function and correction of rotatory displacement could be assessed on median after a period of 1.1 year. In 34 patients flexion and extension was normal on both sides. In one patient we found an extension deficiency of 15° and a rotatory deficiency of 10°. In 34 out 35 patients with metacarpal fractures, minimally invasive intramedullary k-wire osteosynthesis resulted in complete restoration.

Intramedullary k-wire fixation is a minimally invasive method for stabilizing metacarpal fractures. The excellent long-term clinical results are due to the fact that the gliding tissue around the fracture will not be affected at all by the surgical procedure.