Article
Early pin removal for pediatric radial neck fracture treated by percutaneous pin fixation
Search Medline for
Authors
Published: | February 6, 2020 |
---|
Outline
Text
Objectives/Interrogation: To compare the outcomes of percutaneous pinning and early pin removal (less than 3 weeks) for pediatric radial neck fractures with those of percutaneous pinning and late pin removal (after 3 weeks)
Methods: Forty-one pediatric radial neck fractures treated with percutaneous pinning in a single institute from 2003 to 2015 were divided into the following two groups: the early pin removal group (below 3 weeks, n=21) and the late pin removal group (>3 weeks, n=20).
A Steinmann pin (S-pin) was inserted at the fracture site and the fracture was reduced using the leverage technique. The S-pin was then removed to release the soft tissue kinked in the process of fracture reduction and to minimize the potential for posterior interosseous nerve damage. During pin removal, the fracture site was supported by the thumb and a final supporting S-pin was inserted to secure the fracture site.
The radiological results were graded based on the Metaizeau classification. The clinical results were evaluated by the range of motion and Mayo elbow performance score (MEPS). Statistical tests, including the Mann-Whitney U and Chi-square tests, were performed to compare the demographic factors and outcomes of the two groups.
Results and Conclusions: There were no significant differences in the demographic factors and other predisposing factors affecting the outcomes between the two groups. There were also no significant differences in the Metaizeau classification and MEPS between the two groups. In view of dressing care and additional oral antibiotics usage, early pin removal is more beneficial.
Removal of the pin within 3 weeks after percutaneous pinning in pediatric radial neck fractures showed good outcomes that were comparable to those of late removal.