Premature Physeal Closure of an Extraphyseal Distal Radius Fracture Secondary to Smooth Kirschner Wire Fixation: A Case Report

Abstract

Premature closure of the distal radius physis is rare and is usually associated with a fracture pattern that involves the physis. We present a case of an extraphyseal distal radius fracture treated with closed reduction and percutaneous smooth Kirschner wire fi xation that went on to premature physeal closure at the site of wire fi xation. Surgeons should be aware that closures of the distal radius physis after metaphyseal fractures can occur with use of smooth Kirschner wires and that patients should be followed closely.

Corrective Osteotomy and Physeal Bar Resection for Distal Radial Physeal Arrest After Flexible Nailing

“…There is currently only 1 case report of physeal arrest from orthopaedic instrumentation of the distal radius 11 . This fracture was extraphyseal and did not require manipulation of the physis.…”