The “Bail-Out” Technique: The Use of Segmental Mega-Prosthetic Reconstructions for Bony Nonunions

At best, failure to achieve bony union is an unusual occurrence with modern fracture care. The overwhelming majority of fractures unite uneventfully, and there are many techniques available to the surgeon to deal with difficult osteosynthesis. In certain situations, however, achieving union may prove impossible or may require more time than the patient has available. Mega-prosthetic reconstruction can provide a salvage or “bail-out” procedure for these difficult cases.

Keywords: arthroplasty, distal femur, mega-prosthesis, proximal femur, proximal tibia, segmental prosthesis