End cap missing the proximal end of the tibial interlocking nail to migrate posteriorly into the medullary canal: A complication that may be avoided

Abstract

An End cap for an Intra- medullary nail is normally used to prevent bone overgrowth into the proximal end of the nail and to facilitate nail removal at a later date. End cap migration into the proximal redundant space in the medullary canal behind the nail is rare but an avoidable complication. Maintenance of a fixed position of knee flexion during reaming and nail insertion and the use of Cannulated End Cap systems with Image control and may reduce the incidence of this complication. For the retrieval of the end cap from the canal a haemostatic forceps may be used.