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Intrathoracic migration of Kirschner wires
1Department of Surgery, National Cheng-Kung University Hospital, Tainan, Taiwan R.O.C.
Journal of the Formosan Medical Association = Taiwan Yi Zhi
|November 1, 1994
Summary
Intrathoracic migration of Kirschner wires, used for clavicle fracture fixation, is a rare complication. Surgical removal of these migrated foreign bodies is feasible and safe, with successful outcomes in two reported cases.
Area of Science:
- Orthopedic Surgery
- Thoracic Surgery
- Medical Imaging
Background:
- Kirschner wires are commonly used for clavicle fracture fixation.
- Intrathoracic migration of these wires is a rare but serious complication.
- Early diagnosis and intervention are crucial for patient outcomes.
Observation:
- Case 1: A broken Kirschner wire migrated into the mediastinum and pulmonary artery after clavicle fracture fixation.
- Case 2: A Kirschner wire migrated into the thorax 5.5 years after clavicle fracture fixation, presenting with hemoptysis.
- Both cases involved migrated Kirschner wires from clavicle fracture repair.
Findings:
- In Case 1, the migrated Kirschner wire was successfully removed via sternothoracotomy with pericardiotomy.
- In Case 2, the migrated Kirschner wire was successfully removed via right thoracotomy.
- Both patients underwent successful foreign body removal and vascular/pulmonary repair without morbidity.
Implications:
- This report highlights the potential for delayed intrathoracic migration of Kirschner wires.
- Surgical intervention is effective for removing migrated Kirschner wires.
- These cases underscore the importance of vigilance and appropriate management for migrated orthopedic hardware.