Intramedullary rodding of the femur sounds complicated, but it’s more simple than it seems. The procedure is used for patients who have had severe fractures of the thigh bone. The procedure is the most common treatment for those with a break in the femur shaft.

Procedure and Recovery

The rod used in this procedure is called the “intramedullary” because the rod goes inside of the bone where the marrow is located. The two ends of the bone are held in place with the metal rod, and screws connect the rod above and below the fracture. The rod stabilizes the bone and helps the patient support the weight of their body. 

This procedure allows patients to begin moving and using the leg sooner than with other treatments. With the extra support, the patient is able to start physical therapy sooner and get mobility back at a faster rate. 

As with any surgery, complications can arise. A patient may experience pain and other symptoms at the insertion site. If the pain continues, the rod may be removed later. For most patients, however, the rod may remain throughout their lifetime and continue to provide support for the leg.