Intramedullary Fixation in the Fracture of the Shaft of the Clavicle by Threaded Kirschner Wire

ABSTRACT

PURPOSE: To evaluate and report the clinical result of the intramedullary fixation by threaded Kirschner wire in the clavicle shaft fracture. MATERIALS AND METHODS: From May 2000 to April 2004, twenty patients who had the fracture of the shaft of the clavicle were treated by the intramedullary fixation with threaded Kirschner wire. Thirteen patients were followed up and the clinical and radiological results were analyzed. RESULTS: All of the cases had satisfactory fracture union but there were four cases of skin irritation signs by the tip of threaded Kirschner wire. In one case, the Kirschner wire was bent at the fracture site with malunion. According to the clinical scoring system of Kang et al, eight cases were excellent and five cases were good. CONCLUSION: Authors think that intramedullary fixation with threaded Kirschner wire in the fracture of the shaft of the clavicle is one of a good operative method because of small operative incision, easy operative method, satisfactory fracture union and easy removability of the implant.