title: Kirschner wire migration into intramedullary canal of ulna during open reduction and internal fixation.
abstract: At Bunbury Regional Hospital, we recently saw a case where Kirschner wires (K-wires), used during open reduction and internal fixation of olecranon, were propelled down the intramedullary canal intraoperatively. The K-wire was only secured unicortically. From our experience, we have developed steps to prevent this complication. First, where the wires are being used as part of a tension band wire construct, we suggest drilling the distal hole prior to the placement of the K-wires and, secondly, where K-wires are being used to secure the fracture fragment, the K-wires can be secured with artery clips to ensure that the wires remain in position.
authors: Royal Perth Hospital, Perth, WA, Australia vivek.eranki@gmail.com.
authors: Vivek
authors: V
authors: Eranki
authors: Royal Perth Hospital, Perth, WA, Australia.
authors: William
authors: W
authors: Blakeney
authors: South West Health Campus, Bunbury, WA, Australia.
authors: Simon
authors: S
authors: Smith