Abstract

BRUNO, Pablo A et al. Rescate de clavos endomedulares mediante estabilización con placas. Rev. Asoc. Argent. Ortop. Traumatol. [online]. 2014, vol.79, n.3, pp.163-168. ISSN 1852-7434.

Background: Femoral nonunion is a rare complication after intramedullary nailing. There is controversy about the best treatment option. In specific cases, femoral nonunions can be successfully treated by stabilization with plates over an intramedullary nail. Methods: Retrospective review of 16 femur nonunions previously treated with intramedullary nails (12 atrophic, 4 hypertrophic). Lateral approach was used for plate fixation. Previous intramedullary nail was maintained in all cases. Twelve patients underwent osteoperiosteal decortication and autologous bone graft; in 3 of them platelet growth factors were added. In 4 hypertrophic nonunions, no bone graft was added to plate osteosynthesis. Results: Average healing time was 5.3 months after plate fixation. No additional surgeries were needed. One patient suffered a superficial wound infection successfully treated with oral antibiotics. Conclusions: Exchange of intramedullary nail is the method of choice for most aseptic nonunions of femoral diaphysis, but this technique is more demanding in metaphyseal nonunions, in atrophic nonunions with bone defects, and when the biggest intramedullary nail is already in place. Plate provides compression and stability to the fractures, being a good alternative to treat this complication. Minimal debridement of soft tissue and decortication limited to the nonunion is recommended.

Keywords : Nonunion; Femur; Plate; Intramedullary nail.

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