Modified Tension Band Technique With Looped Pin

ABSTRACT

PURPOSE: Fixation of fracture using modified tension band is a very useful treatment method, but loss of fixation caused by loosening of K-wires still remain problem. So we have studied the usefulness of modified tension band with looped pin in order to prevent loss of internal fixation. MATERIALS AND METHODS: From September 1999 to June 2002, we had treated 40 patients with this technique, including 16 patella, 8 olecranon, 8 distal clavicle fractures in which three were nonunion fractures, 5 ankle fractures and 3 acromioclavicular joint separations. We looped the pin which has been used for ring external fixator, in line with its long axis. RESULTS: After mean postoperative follow-up of 20 months, there were no loosening of looped pin in all cases and we obtained satisfactory results of functional evaluation. There were no complications of nonunion or metallic irritation. CONCLUSION: We concluded that modified tension band with looped pin could prevent displacement of internal fixation, and reduce the subsequent complications. Especially in elbow and shoulder joint that the displacement of fixation pin occured frequently, It was considered as very useful operative technique.