Distal Radius K-Wiring Failed Fracture Fixation

The fixation of distal radius fractures with closed manipulation and percutaneous pinning is a common practice that has better results than treatment with a cast alone. Infection of the pin entry point site and loss of reduction due to insufficient stability of the construct are examples of complications of this technique. Unstable distal radius fractures, or fractures in osteoporotic patients, are better treated with distal locking volar plates. This chapter illustrates a failed distal radius fracture fixation due to pin entry site infection and loss of reduction.