Single Buried Intramedullary K-Wire Fixation in Nonthumb Metacarpal Shaft Fractures with Immediate Postoperative Mobilization without Any Immobilization

Abstract

Objective. This study aims to evaluate the outcomes of single intramedullary K-wire fixation in nonthumb, metacarpal shaft fractures with immediate postoperative hand mobilization without any immobilization. Method. This is a retrospective case series conducted from January 2019 to December 2022. We included patients with closed, simple transverse, or short oblique metacarpal shaft fracture treated with single, 1.4 mm, intramedullary K-wire fixation. Gentle postoperative range of motion exercise was encouraged in every patient without any hand, finger, or wrist motion restriction material. Clinical outcomes were evaluated with total active flexion; grip strength; disability of arm, shoulder, and hand (DASH) score; and the American Society for Surgery of the Hand Total Active Flexion (ASSH TAF) score. Results. This study included 34 patients, 25 males and 9 females with a mean age of 33.14 years (ranging 18–59). A total of 43 metacarpal shafts were treated. The mean DASH score at two and 6 weeks postoperative was 41.5 (ranging 19.16–60.34) and 9.58 (ranging 0.83–23.27). The mean final DASH score at last follow-up was 3.48 (ranging 0–8.33). Mean TAF at 2 weeks postoperative, 6 weeks postoperative, and at final follow-up was 203.8 (ranging 185–240), 238.2 (ranging 220–270), and 259.25 (ranging 240–270) degrees, respectively. The mean grip strength of the injured hand was 66.14 and 86.1% of the uninjured hand at 6 weeks and 3 months postoperative. There was no nonunion, malrotation, or infection. In conclusion, single intramedullary K-wire fixation gives excellent outcomes in the treatment of single or multiple, simple, metacarpal shaft fractures without the need of postoperative immobilization.