title: Permanent antibiotic impregnated intramedullary nail in diabetic limb salvage: a case report and literature review.
abstract: Managing complications after attempted hind foot and ankle arthrodesis with intramedullary nail fixation is a challenge. This situation becomes more problematic in the patient with diabetes mellitus and multiple comorbidities. Infection and subsequent osteomyelitis can be a devastating, limb threatening complication associated with these procedures. The surgeon must manage both the infectious process and the skeletal instability concurrently. This article provides a literature review and detailed management strategies for a modified technique of employing antibiotic impregnated polymethylmethacrylate-coated intramedullary nailing.
authors.affiliation: Podiatric Medicine and Surgery Residency Program, University of Pittsburgh Medical Center, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA.
authors.forename: Jason B
authors.initials: JB
authors.lastname: Woods
authors.forename: Nicholas J
authors.initials: NJ
authors.lastname: Lowery
authors.forename: Patrick R
authors.initials: PR
authors.lastname: Burns