New method to remove a broken guide pin in the hip joint.

Area of Science:

• Orthopedic Surgery
• Biomedical Engineering

Background:

• Broken guide wires pose a significant challenge during operative treatment of intertrochanteric femur fractures.
• Traditional methods for removing fractured guide wires are often difficult and unsuccessful.

Observation:

• A 2-mm non-threaded pin fractured during reaming in a patient with an intertrochanteric femur fracture.
• Initial attempts to remove the broken pin using standard instruments failed.
• The broken pin's tip extended past the acetabulum without entering the pelvis.

Findings:

• A novel technique involving a 2-mm cannulated drill bit under fluoroscopy was successfully employed to remove the broken guide wire.
• This method was subsequently used in two additional cases, demonstrating its efficacy and ease of use.
• The cannulated drill bit technique facilitated quick and atraumatic removal of the fractured guide wire.

Implications:

• This technique offers a simple and effective solution for managing broken guide wires during orthopedic procedures.
• It minimizes operative time and reduces potential tissue trauma associated with difficult extractions.
• The described method could become a valuable addition to the armamentarium for orthopedic surgeons dealing with similar complications.