Technique for Extraction and Revision of a Bent Intramedullary Nail for a Subtrochanteric Femur Fracture: A Case Report

JBJS Case Connect. 2023 Feb 10;13(1). doi: 10.2106/JBJS.CC.22.00453. eCollection 2023 Jan 1.

Abstract

Case: A 17-year-old adolescent boy presented 2 months after initial intramedullary nail (IMN) fixation of a comminuted subtrochanteric fracture with refracture at the previous site and approximately 20° varus angulation of the nail. The bent femoral nail was successfully extracted using an open technique using Lohman bone-holding clamps and a broad plate. At the 1-year follow-up, fracture union was achieved.

Conclusions: Removal of a deformed IMN is rare. No standardized protocol exists in guiding orthopaedic surgeons. A thorough review of techniques is discussed on this unusual complication.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Adolescent
  • Bone Nails
  • Bone Plates
  • Femur / surgery
  • Fracture Fixation, Intramedullary* / methods
  • Hip Fractures* / surgery
  • Humans
  • Male