Lower Extremity Fractures: Tips and Tricks for Nails and Plates

Instr Course Lect. 2020:69:433-448.

Abstract

Lower extremity fractures, ranging from the proximal femur to the distal tibia, come in a variety of patterns and complexity. Treatment modalities typically consist of using plates and intramedullary nails; however, each has its advantages and disadvantages in each anatomic region. In this instructional course, salient points and nuances in setup and implant choice are reviewed. Furthermore, the essential tips and tricks to avoid pitfalls and achieve a desired clinical result are discussed.

MeSH terms

  • Bone Nails*
  • Bone Plates*
  • Fracture Fixation, Intramedullary*
  • Fractures, Bone*
  • Humans
  • Lower Extremity*
  • Tibia