Technique of exchange of Sheffield telescopic rod system.

Abstract

Intramedullary fixation of long bones in patients with osteogenesis imperfecta has become the gold standard for prevention and treatment of fractures and subsequent deformities. The use of expanding rods has reduced the number of operations needed compared with fixed-length rods, allowing the growth of bones. The authors describe the technique of exchange of a Sheffield rod in a child in whom the bone has outgrown the rod length to the point where the rod is about to disengage or has just done so. The minimally invasive technique adds to the advantages already described for the Sheffield rod system over others in patients with osteogenesis imperfecta.