Literature review of current techniques for the insertion of distal screws into intramedullary locking nails.

The procedure for distal interlocking of intramedullary nails can be difficult and time consuming. Following nail insertion, the problems associated with the location of the distal holes and correct screw placements are well known. Numerous techniques and devices have been proposed to aid distal targeting, in attempts to overcome some of the associated problems. The development of the techniques and devices continues. A review of the literature is therefore timely, in order to provide awareness of the current situation. An overview is presented of the various distal targeting methods reported in the literature.