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Reported pin site infection rates in Kirschner wire fixation in the hand and wrist vary from 2% to 35%. In our unit we follow a strict pin site management protocol adapted from the Russian Ilizarov Scientific Centre. This study aims to identify if our current protocol reduces the incidence of pin site infection in hand and wrist surgery, and improves wire survival rates, to a level where exposed wires can be used safely. A retrospective review of 200 patients, treated with 369 percutaneous wires, in our hand surgery department over a 6-year period was carried out. Nine patients (4.5%) were diagnosed with a pin site infection with a wire survival rate of 99.5%.In our unit using our current protocol, results support the safe use of exposed wires with appropriate pin site care initiated in theatre. Adherence to this protocol allows wires to remain in-situ throughout treatment with minimal complications. Level of evidence: IV [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article discusses the case of a 64-year-old man with severe osteoarthritis of the metacarpophalangeal joints of the left index and middle fingers, who underwent arthroplasties using pyrocarbon implants. A clinical examination was conducted sixteen months after surgery, while radiographs showed a fracture at the rim of the articular surface of the phalangeal component of the middle finger. The phalangeal component was revised to a larger sized pyrocarbon implant three months later.