The Precice nail is the latest intramedullary lengthening nail with excellent early outcomes. Implant complications have led to modification of the nail design. The aim of this study was to perform a retrieval study of Precice nails following lower limb lengthening. To assess macroscopic and microscopic changes to the implants and assess differences following design modification, with identification of potential surgical, implant and patient risk factors. 15 nails were retrieved from 13 patients following lower limb lengthening. Macroscopic and microscopic surface damage to the nails were identified. Further analysis included radiology and micro-CT prior to sectioning. The internal mechanism was then analysed with Scanning Electron Microscopy and Energy Dispersive X-ray Spectroscopy to identify corrosion.Introduction
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