Intraoperative ultrasound-guided reduction of femoral shaft fractures using intramedullary nailing: a technical note

Abstract

Objectives: Intramedullary (IM) nailing is the preferred method for treatment of femoral shaft fractures. However, for the surgical staff and the patients, exposure to large dose of X-rays is inevitable during the procedure. In this paper, a new technique based on ultrasound is proposed to guide the reduction of femoral fractures, reducing radiation exposure. Methods and results: By means of particular continuous transverse and multiplanar longitudinal scanning, the deformity pattern information of the fracture could be efficiently acquired. Adequate reduction could be achieved under the real-time guidance of intraoperative ultrasound. Conclusions: Intraoperative ultrasound can guide the reduction of femoral shaft fracture using IM nailing, and reduce the radiation exposure of medical staff and patients.