A thorough understanding of fracture biomechanics and fracture healing is necessary to exercise proper judgment with regard to the choice of fixation. Intramedullary Fixation Improper intramedullary pin placement. Intramedullary fixation remains the most common form of internal fixation used in small animal practice.
Intramedullary fixation is both a science and an art.
A thorough understanding of fracture biomechanics and fracture healing is necessary to exercise proper judgment with regard to the choice of fixation. A high degree of technical skill obtained through patience and practice is required to implement proper fixation. The devices available to veterinarians include Steinmann pins, Kirschner wires, Rush pins, and interlocking nails, however, only Steinmann pins and Kirschner wires are used with any great frequency. An interlocking nail system designed for use in dogs has recently become available and is rapidly gaining acceptance in clinical practice.