Professional
Technical
In the Industry Vocabulary Test
Retrograde nailing
An intramedullary fixation technique where the nail is inserted from the distal end of the bone.
Full Definition
Retrograde nailing is an intramedullary fixation technique where the nail is inserted from the distal (lower) end of the bone and advanced proximally (upward) into the medullary canal. This approach is commonly used for distal femur fractures and offers advantages when antegrade (standard) nailing is contraindicated due to patient positioning, pregnancy, or when maintaining knee ligament integrity is crucial. The technique requires careful attention to entry point selection and may involve crossing the knee joint.
Usage
Usage note: Contrasts with antegrade nailing, which is the standard proximal-to-distal approach.
In Context
- "Retrograde femoral nailing was performed due to the patient's pregnancy and inability to position prone." — Operative report
- "The retrograde nail provided excellent alignment and early mobilization capability." — Postoperative note
Also known as
distal-to-proximal nailing
reverse nailing
Contrasted with
antegrade nailing
Don't confuse with
antegrade nailing
cannulated nailing