Intramedullary Nailing of Forearm Fractures

The primary goal in operative fixation of forearm fractures is to restore length, rotational stability, and maintenance of the radial bow. Plate osteosynthesis is well regarded as the gold standard of treatment though often necessitates soft tissue injury, periosteal stripping, and risk of refracture after hardware removal. While intramedullary nails have been utilized for forearm fixation since the early 1900s, technological advancements including locked intramedullary nails have lead to improved outcomes in intramedullary nail forearm fixation. In select patients, intramedullary nail fixation is an appropriate treatment option. For example, patients with mangled extremities, comminuted or segmental fractures, or soft tissue injury may benefit from this approach as it allows for smaller incisions and limits further soft tissue compromise.