Fixation of distal radial epiphyseal fracture: Comparison of K-wire and prebent intramedullary nail

Objective To compare the use of crossed K-wire and prebent intramedullary nail techniques for the fixation of distal radius metaphyseal fracture in children. Methods Intraoperative and follow-up data for children with distal radius metaphyseal fracture, treated using crossed K-wire or prebent intramedullary nail fixation, were retrospectively analysed. Patient groups were matched for age, sex and clinical parameters (fracture location, affected side, fracture type). Results Patients treated using prebent intramedullary nail fixation (n=52) had significantly shorter surgery duration, fewer intraoperative X-radiographs, and lower prevalence of postoperative redisplacement and malalignment deformity than those treated using crossed K-wire fixation (n=52). Both techniques resulted in similar postoperative complications and recovery of forearm rotation. Conclusions Prebent intramedullary nail fixation has a better functional outcome than crossed K-wire fixation in the treatment of distal radial epiphyseal fracture in children.