Optimal Entry Point for Retrograde Femoral Nailing

Abstract

Retrograde femoral nailing should be used cautiously in select patients, when conventional antegrade nailing cannot be used, due to the unavoidable injury to the knee articular surface associated with this technique. The optimum entry point of 1.2 cm anterior to the femoral posterior cruciate ligament origin and centered in the intercondylar sulcus provides the optimal balance of fracture reduction and knee joint sparing. It may be difficult to target this site with a percutaneous technique and may require direct visualization of the intercondylar sulcus for ideal nail placement.