Abstract
We retrospectively reviewed 20 children with Salter-Harris II fractures of the distal radius treated with intrafocal pinning according to Kapandji. Unlike conventional crossed K-wire pinning, this method avoids crossing the physis with the pins and thus minimizes the risk of physeal damage. None of the children had fracture re-displacement, angulation or growth deformities. The age, sex, side of injury, fracture displacement or angulation, treatment delay or immobilization period had any significant impact on the functional outcome. At a mean follow-up of 49 months (range 47–60), plain radiographs and MRI showed no growth arrests or physeal bars or bridges. Grip strength, wrist motion and patient-reported outcomes were almost normal with no or minimal pain at the injury site. We conclude that intrafocal K-wire pinning is simple, safe and affordable. We cannot provide data on what is acceptable fracture displacement for different age groups to allow for acceptable final remodelling of any malalignment.
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