Abstract
Classic nonunion and malunion treatment has relied upon plate fixation and compression techniques. Similar to plate fixation mechanics, modern intramedullary fixation can be used to create a variety of different stability environments in bone stabilization. While first- and second-generation intramedullary nails were used almost exclusively as internal splints for bridging fracture constructs, newest generation nails have designs which allow expanded applications on the stability spectrum including the ability to provide interfragmentary compression and more angular stability in short metaphyseal segments. While most recognized for use in shortening or rotational diaphyseal osteotomies and in diaphyseal atrophic nonunions, newer stability improvements have allowed the use of nails in different types of fixation and stability constructs. Despite the new stability possibilities based on implant design, much of nail application stability is still related to fracture/osteotomy morphology and location and even bone quality.
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Lee, M.A. (2020). Use in Nonunions and Malunions. In: Crist, B., Borrelli Jr., J., Harvey, E. (eds) Essential Biomechanics for Orthopedic Trauma. Springer, Cham. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-030-36990-3_19
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DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-030-36990-3_19
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