The embedded broken-off needle

Area of Science:

• Podiatric surgery
• Medical imaging
• Biomechanical analysis

Background:

• Foreign body retrieval in the foot can be challenging.
• Embedded needles pose a risk of infection and further injury.
• Accurate localization is crucial for minimally invasive removal.

Purpose of the Study:

• To describe a new technique for removing broken needles from the foot.
• To utilize imaging and geometric principles for precise needle localization.
• To facilitate safe and effective needle extraction.

Main Methods:

• Employing posteroanterior and lateral X-ray films.
• Utilizing a radiopaque marker at the needle entry point.
• Applying principles of solid geometry to determine needle position and angle.

Main Results:

• The described technique allows for accurate calculation of the embedded needle's position and angle.
• The use of a marker as a reference point enhances localization precision.
• Successful and easy removal of the needle is facilitated by the method.

Conclusions:

• This technique offers a reliable method for removing foot-embedded needles.
• The combination of X-ray imaging and solid geometry improves surgical outcomes.
• Minimally invasive extraction is achievable with this approach.