[Intrathoracic migration of Kirschner wires].

Orthopedic surgeons apply metallic pins to stabilize the clavicule and humerus on a daily basis. Migration of these pins into the thoracic cavity is rare. We present the case of an elderly female patient, whose right humeroscapular joint was fixed with Kirschner wires due to recurrent luxation. Six weeks later, a follow-up X-ray revealed that the pins have migrated into the right thoracic cavity, confirmed by a CT chest. Videothoracoscopic removal of the metallic pins was not possible because of dense adhesions. Right anterolateral thoracotomy was carried out, and after pneumolysis one pin was taken out from the 2nd lung segment. The other one, which was running along the cupola and entering the spinal cord, was also removed. There was no postoperative surgical complication. The authors review the literature of this rare complication and point out that pins migrating into the thoracic cavity should be removed to avoid life threatening complications.