Magnetically Driven Intramedullary Limb Lengthening in Patients with Pre-existing Implanted Programmable Devices: A...

The aim of the study is to demonstrate the safety and efficacy of the use of magnetically controlled intramedullary nails in patient with programmable implantable devices.

Magnetically driven intramedullary limb lengthening devices have revolutionised the field of limb reconstruction. Because the system is powered by strong magnets, there are warnings to avoid the use of the device in patients with implanted programmable devices, such as cardiac pacemakers.

Four patients with three different types of programmable implanted devices presented to two centres for limb lengthening and limb reconstruction. Each patient had a limb length discrepancy and desired correction using an intramedullary lengthening device. After thorough counselling about the potential risks and benefits of the procedure as well as discussions with each patient's medical team, the decision to proceed with surgery was made.

All four patients underwent osteoplasty with insertion of a magnetically driven intramedullary lengthening nail. Goal length was achieved with successful consolidation and subsequent nail removal in all patients. There were no malfunctions of the implantable devices during the distraction phase in any of the patients.

With proper precautions, intramedullary lengthening can be performed safely and successfully using a magnetically driven nail in patients with previously implanted programmable devices.

This initial experience suggests use of magnetically controlled intramedullary nails in patient with programmable implantable devices can be undertaken safely within constraints of precautions.

Iobst CA, Hatfield DN, Forro SD, et al. Magnetically Driven Intramedullary Limb Lengthening in Patients with Pre-existing Implanted Programmable Devices: A Case Series. Strategies Trauma Limb Reconstr 2023;18(2):111-116.