Radiation independent distal aiming device versus the freehand technique in distal locking of unreamed femoral nails: a prospective clinical study

ABSTRACT

The aim of this clinical study was to compare the distal aiming device [DAD] versus the freehand technique [FHT] in distal locking of unreamed femoral nails inserted in a closed manner. Thirty cases were included in the study. FHT was applied in 15 cases and DAD was used in the other 15 cases. The radiation exposure and operative time during steps of nailing were recorded in each case. In the DAD group, the mean radiation exposure was 66 seconds, the mean radiation exposure during distal locking was 3 seconds, the mean operative time was 93 minutes and the mean time for distal locking was 18 minutes, versus 99 seconds, 33 seconds, 95 minutes and 22 minutes in FHT group, respectively. Failure of distal locking occurred in 16.6% [5 of 30 screws] of DAD group