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Distal targeting device for long Gamma nail(®). Monocentric observational study.
M Ehlinger1, G Dillman, J Czekaj
1Service de chirurgie orthopédique et de traumatologie, Hôpital de Hautepierre, Hôpitaux universitaires de Strasbourg, 1, avenue Molière, 67098 Strasbourg cedex, France.
Orthopaedics & Traumatology, Surgery & Research : OTSR
|October 8, 2013
Summary
The new Gamma nail targeting device for distal locking screws was not always used and had some complications, but it effectively limits radiation exposure for surgeons, especially junior ones.
Area of Science:
- Orthopedic surgery
- Medical device evaluation
- Radiation safety
Background:
- Distal locking screws in intramedullary nails control length and rotation but increase radiation exposure.
- A new distal targeting device for long Gamma nails was developed to mitigate this risk.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the reliability and effectiveness of the new distal targeting device for long Gamma nails.
- To assess the system's systematic use, complication rates, and impact on radiation exposure.
Main Methods:
- An observational prospective cohort study involving 91 long Gamma nails implanted between November 2011 and October 2012.
- Data collected included device usage, difficulties, complications, fluoroscopy duration, and radiation dose.
- Surgeons were categorized as junior or senior, and risk factors for complications were analyzed.
Main Results:
- The targeting device was used in 79 out of 91 cases, with 3 malpositions of distal locking screws observed.
- No statistically significant risk factors for complications were identified.
- Distal locking accounted for 18% of total procedure radiation, with the device showing effectiveness in limiting radiation, particularly for junior surgeons.
Conclusions:
- The hypothesis of systematic use without complications was not confirmed.
- The targeting device is effective in limiting radiation dose during distal locking, comparable between junior and senior surgeons.
- Despite not being systematically used and having a non-null complication risk, the device aids in managing radiation exposure in orthopedic procedures.
