What is pin tract?

What is pin tract?

Abstract. Pin tract infection in external fixation (ExFix) is a frequent finding which can eventually lead to loosening, osteomyelitis and loss of fixation. Its diagnosis is based on high empiricism and low validity, although it is possible to distinguish between minor and major infection.

How to treat pin tract infection?

Pin tract infection is a common complication of external fixation. It usually heals after treatment with debridement, antibiotics, and/or pin removal, only rarely developing into delayed osteomyelitis.

What is PTI infection?

At the present time, PTI infection is broadly defined as the signs and symptoms of infection around pins or wires that require the administration of an antibiotic, pin or wire removal, or even surgical debridement.

How do I know if my pins are infected?

Check your pin site every day for signs of infection, such as:

1. Skin redness.
2. Skin at the site is warmer.
3. Swelling or hardening of the skin.
4. Increased pain at the pin site.
5. Drainage that is yellow, green, thick, or smelly.
6. Fever.
7. Numbness or tingling at the pin site.
8. Movement or looseness of the pin.

How do I clear pin sites on an external fixator?

Use a squeeze bottle to squirt saline on each pin and surrounding skin. Do not touch the tip of the bottle to the pins or skin. Dry around each pin using sterile gauze or cotton swabs. Use a clean gauze or swab for each pin.

How do you clean pin sites?

Clean around each pin site using the soaked gauze pad or cotton swab. Gently press down on the skin, while wiping around and away from each pin. Remove any crust at the pin site. Use a new gauze pad or cotton swab each time you wipe.

How long do surgical pins stay in?

Pins may stay in place until the bone is healed. Your doctor will tell you how long the pins will be needed. The places where the pins go into the skin are called the pin sites. You must keep these areas clean to prevent infection.