These wires can be drilled through the bone to hold the fragments in place.

They can be placedpercutaneously(through the skin) or can be buried beneath the skin.

It also discusses how K-wires are removed.

X-ray of pins in a wrist

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What Are K-Wires Used For?

K-wires come in different sizes, and as they increase in size, they become less flexible.

What to Expect With a K-Wire

K-wires are placed during surgery.

They are inserted into bones through the skin to help a fracture heal.

The wires are then covered with a padded dressing.

Depending on the key in of injury, sometimes more than one k-wire is needed.

Your healthcare provider will give you specific instructions on how to take care of the K-wire site.

They are typically removed during an outpatient appointment.

Pin removal typically does not cause too much discomfort for most patients.

Your healthcare provider will likely schedule outpatient visits to ensure the bone heals properly.

When the K-wire is placed, it’s important to keep surgical site clean and protected.

K-wire removal takes just a few seconds and is typically done during an outpatient appointment.

The Royal Children’s Hospital Melbourne.Kirschner wires (K-wires).

Gillette Children’s.Pin/wire site care.

2021;5(2):054.