Title: Kirschner Wire Fixation for Mandible Fractures: A Simpler and Cost-Effective Technique

Authors: Dr Subrat Kumar Jena, Dr Sourav Kumar Rout

 DOI: https://dx.doi.org/10.18535/jmscr/v9i5.26

Abstract

Introduction: In some centers across countries, Kirschner wires are still widely used for fixation of mandible fractures. Kirshner wire fixation for mandibular fracture can be a cost-effective alternative for fracture fixation. The present study is aimed at highlighting the relevance of Kirschner wire fixation a simple technique which gives desired result with much less cost and it is easier to learn.

Material and Method: A total of 254 patients with mandibular fractures treated by Kirschner wire fixation between March 2014 to February 2019 are prospectively analyzed. All patients complied to the uniform Kirschner wire care protocol, and maintained regular follow up for 6 months. Post-operative complication was categorized in two categories minor or major and further subdivided into pin tract infection, pin migration, pin loosening, delayed union, malunion, pin fracture, non-union, osteomyelitis, facial asymmetry and sensory nerve damage.

Result: A satisfactory treatment outcome was recorded in 221(87.4%) of the 254 patients while complications occurred in 33(12.6%) of the patients. Most complications were minor, commonly superficial pin tract infection in 10(6%) patients. Major complication that led to revision surgery deep infection, malunion, nonunion. And fracture of pin. Development of infection is due to poor compliance with pin care.

Discussion: Kirschner Wire internal fixation can be a reasonable alternative for the surgical treatment of non-comminuted, and comminuted mandibular fractures and those without bone loss, in the setting of limited resources and minimally invasive technique.

Keywords: Mandibular fracture, Kirschner wire internal fixation, Minimally invasive, Cost-effective.

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Corresponding Author

Dr Sourav Kumar Rout

Consultant Department of Cranio Maxillofacial Surgery, Ashwini Hospital, Cuttack, Odisha