Delayed migration of K-wire into popliteal fossa used for tension band wiring of patellar fracture

Abstract

【Abstract】Breakage of K-wires and stainless steel wires which are used for fracture fixation is not uncommon, but migration is rare. We report a case of migration of bro-ken K-wire used for patella tension band wiring to the popliteal fossa. The broken hardware was removed surgically. We would like to suggest that K-wire and wire fixation used for treatment of patellar fractures can migrate into the posterior compartment of the knee and cause clini-cal symptoms. Close clinical and radiological follow-up af-ter internal fixation to identify the presence of hardware breakage or movement and removal of wires once fracture has united can avert such complications. Key words: Patella; Fracture fixation, internal; Bone wires