Premature Physeal Closure of an Extraphyseal Distal Radius Fracture Secondary to Smooth Kirschner Wire Fixation: A Case Report

Premature closure of the distal radius physis is rare and is usually associated with a fracture pattern that involves the physis. We present a case of an extraphyseal distal radius fracture treated with closed reduction and percutaneous smooth Kirschner wire fixation that went on to premature physeal closure at the site of wire fixation. Surgeons should be aware that closures of the distal radius physis after metaphyseal fractures can occur with use of smooth Kirschner wires and that patients should be followed closely.