Outcomes of Metacarpal Fracture Fixation: A Comparison between Dual Intra-Medullary 1.5mm Kirschner's Wire and Single 2.0mm K-Wire Techniques

Abstract

Objective: This study aims to evaluate and compare the outcomes of two fixation techniques for metacarpal fractures: dual intra-medullary 1.5mm flexible Kirschner's wire (K-wire) fixation versus single 2.0mm K-wire fixation.

Methods: Conducted at the Department of Orthopedic in Muhammad Medical College / Ibn-E-Sina University Mirpurkhas Pakistan, this prospective study spanned from January 2024 to December 2024. A total of 40 patients, aged between 18 and 60 years, with either single or multiple metacarpal fractures were enrolled. Participants were randomly assigned to one of two treatment

groups: Group 1 received dual intra-medullary 1.5mm flexible K-wire fixation, while Group 2 was treated with a single 2.0mm K-wire.

Results: The mean age of participants was 34.89 ± 6.45 years, with a predominance of male patients. In Group 1, 50% (n=10) of patients achieved excellent outcomes, 25% (n=5) had good outcomes, and 20% (n=4) reported fair outcomes. Conversely, in Group 2, 40% (n=8) had excellent outcomes, 25% (n=5) had good outcomes, 25% (n=5) had fair outcomes, and 10% (n=2) experienced poor outcomes, as classified by Strickland's criteria. While no statistically significant differences were found between the two fixation methods, those treated with dual 1.5mm K-wires exhibited better functional results.

Conclusion: The findings suggest that dual K-wire fixation offers a superior approach for managing metacarpal fractures compared to single K-wire fixation, attributed to quicker healing times and reduced complications.