Removal of a Broken Intramedullary Nail: A Case Report and Technical Description

Document Type : CASE REPORT

Authors

Addenbrookes Major Trauma Unit, Department of Trauma and Orthopaedics, Cambridge University Hospitals NHS Trust, Cambridge, Cambridgeshire, UK

Abstract

The removal of a broken intramedullary nail is a challenging procedure. Several surgical techniques have been
described to remove the distal end of the nail. Here, we report the surgical technique for removing broken Fitbone®
lengthening nail using a cerclage wire. This is an effective and reproducible technique that does not require specialized
equipment, the development of a cortical window, or an arthrotomy and is applicable for all types of intramedullary nails.
Level of evidence: IV

Keywords


Volume 10, Issue 11
November 2022
Pages 982-985
  • Receive Date: 07 May 2022
  • Revise Date: 01 June 2022
  • Accept Date: 14 June 2022
  • First Publish Date: 17 October 2022