Behavior of Intramedullary Impants Across the Distal Femoral Growth Plate: Preliminary Results from a Sheep Model

Abstract

Introduction: The purpose of this investigation is to study the superior migration of an intramedullary implant across the distal femoral growth plate. In the developing world, retrograde intramedullary nailing offers a potential treatment option in light of limitations including lack of power equipment, limited inventory, and lack of intraoperative fluoroscopy. Although regular post-operative follow-up can be difficult in these settings, preliminary data suggest that these nails may migrate superiorly past the growth plate over time. The purpose of this study is to understand the rate of migration and consequences after the metal implant crosses …