Introducing a novel surgical tool to facilitate IM nailing – Femoral Antegrade Starting Tool (FAST)

摘要

Introduction: The current standard of care in lower extremity long bone fracture stabilization is closed intramedullary nailing (IMN). The surgical protocol associated with this surgery is well defined. Yet, challenges arise that impede the surgical workflow and lead to frustration in the operating room. Specifically, two surgical steps of entry point selection and reduction have been identified in the literature as the most challenging steps. Both of these steps utilize 2D fluoroscopic imaging to guide 3D alignment. Challenges arise when the alignment in one plane is lost while adjusting the alignment in the perpendicular plane. This leads to unpredictable repetition of activities which can be time consuming and frustrating. The primary aim of this study is to develop an innovative surgical instrument to facilitate the entry point selection.