Episiotomy-assisted Incarcerated Femoral Nail Removal: Technical Note

Abstract

Introduction: Incarceration of intramedullary nails can pose a significant challenge. There are many reported techniques of nail removal, but when these fail, it can be difficult to determine how to proceed. Here, it is shown that a proximal femoral episiotomy can be used with great effect. Case Report: 64-year-old male developed hip arthritis. The patient had a solid antegrade femoral nail placed 22 years ago that required removal for a hip arthroplasty. A proximal femoral episiotomy-assisted approach was used with good results and patient outcome. Conclusion: There are several well described techniques to assist with incarcerated nail removal that all trauma surgeons should be familiar with. Proximal femoral episiotomy is a useful technique, every surgeon should have in their arsenal. Keywords: Hardware removal, episiotomy, incarcerated femoral nail, hip arthroplasty.