Breakage of the Radiopaque Wire from the Medullary Tube during Closed Antegrade Intramedullary Nailing for Femoral Shaft Fracture

Abstract

We report a complication of radiopaque wire breakage from the medullary tube during closed antegrade intramedullary nailing for a femoral shaft fracture. To avoid such complication, the medullary tube should be checked carefully for colour changes and surface defects, and tested for flexibility before each use. The medullary tube should also be replaced before 100 exposures to autoclaving.