Asymptomatic migration of Kirschner wire into the cervical spine: a rare case report complication 32 months post-clavicle fracture fixation.

INTRODUCTION AND

IMPORTANCE

Kirschner wires (K-wires) are widely used in orthopedic surgery for fracture fixation and joint stabilization, but complications such as migration, though rare, can have severe consequences.

CASE PRESENTATION: We report the case of a 24-year-old female who presented with asymptomatic migration of a K-wire into the cervical spine, 32 months after clavicle fixation. Imaging revealed that the wire had traversed from the right first rib to the C6-C7 interlaminar space. Surgical removal was performed via a posterior medial approach after an initial posterolateral dissection failed. Postoperative recovery was uneventful, with no complications or neurological deficits.

CLINICAL DISCUSSION: This case marks the 14th reported instance of spinal K-wire migration and the first involving an asymptomatic female patient.

CONCLUSIONS

It underscores the importance of careful surgical technique, routine follow-up, timely hardware removal, and the role of advanced imaging in detecting and managing such rare but potentially serious complications.