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Intrathoracic migration of Kirschner pins
N Venissac1, M Alifano, M Dahan
1Service de Chirurgie Thoracique, CHU de Nice, Hôpital Pasteur, France.
The Annals of Thoracic Surgery
|July 13, 2000
Summary
Kirschner pins used for sternoclavicular joint dislocation can migrate into the chest. While asymptomatic in these cases, this complication highlights risks associated with metallic fixation devices for this injury.
Area of Science:
- Orthopedic Surgery
- Thoracic Surgery
- Medical Device Complications
Background:
- Sternoclavicular joint dislocation is a significant injury requiring management.
- Metallic fixation devices, such as Kirschner pins, are sometimes used in treating these dislocations.
Observation:
- Two patients experienced asymptomatic intrathoracic migration of Kirschner pins post-sternoclavicular joint dislocation treatment.
- The migrated pins were located within the chest cavity without causing immediate symptoms.
Findings:
- Intrathoracic migration of Kirschner pins is a potential complication following sternoclavicular joint dislocation repair.
- Surgical intervention, including median sternotomy and video-assisted thoracoscopy, was successfully employed for pin removal.
Implications:
- This case series underscores the importance of considering potential complications associated with metallic implants in orthopedic surgery.
- Awareness of these risks can guide surgical technique and patient monitoring for sternoclavicular joint injuries.
- Further research into safer fixation methods or alternative treatments for sternoclavicular joint dislocations may be warranted.