User:Innovativeanimal

INTERLOCKING NAIL SYSTEM

Interlocking Nails are a refinement of the original Kuntscher Nail. An Interlocking Nail is basically an intramedullary pin secured in position by proximal and distal transfixing screws which engage the bone to the nail to provide axial bending and torsional stability. This procedure, in man, generally involves power reaming and insertion by closed technique on a distraction table under fluoroscopic control. The Dueland Interlocking Nail System (IN System), however, needs no extra specialized equipment.

In 1989, R. Tass Dueland, DVM (University of Wisconsin) and associates began investigations to apply this human fracture modality to veterinary orthopedics. These investigations consisted of both mechanical and clinical trials to define the nail and instrumentation requirements. This research provided encouraging clinical results and resulted in the development of the IN System.

In comminuted long bone fractures, the IN System is useful due to the mechanical advantage of medullary implantation (i.e. mechanical axis) and prevention of collapse of the fracture by the interlocking effect. Ancillary cerciage wires reduce periosteal stripping and minimize disturbance to blood supply compared to plating.

The IN System was developed specifically for the veterinary surgeon to provide a practical surgical procedure requiring minimal ancillary equipment.