Alex C. McLaren, M.D.

Indications for the use of intramedullary rods in the fixation of fractures in the extremities continue to broaden with improvements in technology. Newer developments include intramedullary components for the forearm. These systems closely match the complex anatomy of the arm and in early results are attaining patient outcomes that are equal to plate fixation. Dr. McLaren sees the primary advantage as being less surgical dissection, including less risk of infection and reduced operating time.

In this segment from the VJO's trauma series, Dr. McLaren profiles key surgical steps necessary for closed intramedullary fixation in an MVA patient with a forearm fracture. He discusses the degree of precision necessary to attain reproducible results with this procedure and evaluates its potential as an alternative to plates.

References
1. McLaren AC, Roth JH, Wright C Intramedullary rod fixation of femoral shaft fractures: comparison of open and closed insertion techniques The Canadian Journal of Surgery 1990;33(4):286-290
2. McLaren AC, Dupont JA, Schroeder DC Open reduction internal fixation of supracondylar fractures above total knee arthroplasties using the intramedullary supracondylar rod Clinical Orthopedics and Related Research 1994;302:194-198
3. McLaren AC Fracture healing associated with flexible IM rods Ortho Transactions 1987;2(2);205

• Total Run Time: 13:56 minutes
• Catalog Number: 2514
• Publication Date: June 1998

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