INTRAMEDULLARY COMPRESSION SCREW VERSUS KIRSCHNER WIRES IN PERCUTANEOUS FIXATION OF DIAPHYSEAL METACARPAL FRACTURES

Abstract

Introduction: Various surgical techniques are utilized for optimal fixation of metacarpal shaft fractures, with intramedullary compression screw and Kirschner wires being two commonly employed methods. Materials and Methods: This prospective study included 40 patients, divided into two equal groups, with short oblique or transverse fractures of the metacarpal shaft. Percutaneous fixa-tion was performed using either intramedullary compression screw or Kirschner wires. The outcomes were assessed using metacarpophalangeal joint (MCPJ) range of motion, Visual analogue scale at one, two and three months postoperatively in addition to the time needed to achieve radiological union. Results: Intramedullary compression screw yielded significantly greater MCPJ range of mo-tion and lower VAS score at one month postoperatively with no statistically significant differ-ence between the two groups at two and three months postoperatively. Similarly, radiological union indicated no significant difference between the two groups. Conclusion: Both intramedullary compression screw and Kirschner wiring techniques provide stable fixation and support effective fracture healing, allowing the choice of technique to depend on surgeon preference and technical considerations.