Aim of the study: to assess the early complication rate following k-wiring of distal radial fractures and their final clinical outcome.

Materials & methods: a prospective study. 48 Patients with 50 distal radial fractures (26 male,22 female) with mean age 34 years(range 4–88) were treated by closed k-wiring during the period jan 2005-june 2005.

They were assessed in terms of early complications following mua and k-wiring and their final clinical outcome.

Results: 12 patients(24%)had discharge, pin tract granulation, loosening out of which 4 required antibiotics. Out of 12 only 2(4%) had positive swab culture requiring i.V. Antibiotics

.3(6%)Had symptoms suggesting superficial radial nerve damage of which 2 recovered completely after pin removal. One had residual symptom which got better before planned exploration.

9 Patients (18%)had stiffness of which only 3(6%)had residual stiffness at the end of 6 months. Crps was noted in 1 patient(2%)who recovered after good physio.

There wer nocases of deep infection, osteomyelitis, tendon rupture, pin migration or significant loss of position.

Conclusion: our data suggests that though early complication rate of k-wiring is alarming, it doesnot affect the final clinical outcome of fracture management and this complication can be avoided by proper technique and care.

There is no rationale in giving antibiotic coverage for all the pintract discharges unless swab positive.