Intramedullary Nailing (IM Nail)
A metal rod is passed down the marrow canal of a fractured long bone and locked at both ends — providing strong load-sharing fixation and rapid return to weight-bearing.
What is Intramedullary Nailing (IM Nail)?
Intramedullary Nailing is the established surgical gold standard for displaced shaft fractures of long bones — particularly the femur, tibia and humerus. A precisely sized metal nail is passed through the marrow canal across the fracture site and locked at both ends with interlocking screws, creating a load-sharing construct that preserves fracture biology while providing strong rotational and axial stability. The procedure is performed through small entry incisions, sparing soft tissues. Dr. Hithesh performs intramedullary nailing in Hyderabad across complex shaft fracture patterns, delivering reliable bone healing, very early weight-bearing and excellent functional outcomes.
Indicated for displaced shaft fractures of the femur, tibia and humerus — including comminuted, segmental and complex shaft patterns — where strong internal stability and early mobilisation are clinically important.
How the Procedure Works
Anaesthesia & Positioning
General or regional anaesthesia; the patient is positioned on a fracture table allowing accurate fluoroscopic guidance throughout the procedure.
Entry Portal
A small incision over the standard entry point — greater trochanter for femur or tibial tuberosity for tibia — exposes the bone.
Canal Reaming
The marrow canal is precisely reamed to the desired diameter using flexible reamers, allowing the appropriately sized nail to pass through.
Nail Insertion
The intramedullary nail is gently advanced through the canal across the fracture site under continuous fluoroscopic guidance and visualisation.
Locking & Closure
Locking screws are placed at both ends through small skin incisions; wounds are closed; very early mobilisation begins postoperatively.
Outcomes
Who Needs This Treatment?
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Strong load-sharing fixation that preserves fracture biological healing capacity
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Minimally invasive with small entry incisions and minimal soft-tissue disruption
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Allows very early weight-bearing in most stable fracture configurations
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Excellent for complex comminuted and segmental long-bone fracture patterns
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Preserves the periosteal blood supply essential to fracture biological healing
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Highly successful technique with proven excellent long-term outcomes globally
Intramedullary nailing changed long-bone fracture care forever. By respecting biology and providing biomechanically perfect support, we transformed what was once weeks in traction into walking-the-next-day surgery.
— — Dr. Bathini Hithesh, Consultant Orthopaedic Surgeon, Trauma & Joint Replacement Specialist, Lux Hospitals, Hyderabad
Intramedullary Nailing (IM Nail) Cost in Hyderabad
The cost of intramedullary nailing (IM nail) in Hyderabad depends on the type and location of the long bone fracture, fracture pattern, complexity of fixation, implant requirements, investigations required, and the care needed before and after surgery.
For patients with long bone shaft fractures requiring intramedullary fixation, the approximate cost of intramedullary nailing ranges between ₹1,00,000 and ₹2,20,000.
| Procedure | Approximate Cost Range |
|---|---|
| Intramedullary Nailing (IM Nail) | ₹1,00,000 – ₹2,20,000 |
The final cost may vary depending on your individual condition, fracture findings, type of nail used, implant requirements, and whether any additional procedures are required.
Factors That Influence Intramedullary Nailing Cost
The overall cost may depend on:
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Type and complexity of fracture: The affected long bone, fracture location, pattern, displacement, and stability may influence the surgical approach and fixation requirements.
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Pre-operative evaluation: Required X-rays, CT scans when needed, clinical examination, blood tests, and other medical assessments before surgery may affect the overall cost.
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Implant and fixation requirements: The type and size of intramedullary nail, locking screws, and other fixation components required may influence the cost.
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Hospital stay and post-operative care: The duration of admission, medicines, wound care, physiotherapy, rehabilitation, and follow-up requirements may influence the final estimate.
Is Intramedullary Nailing Covered by Insurance?
Intramedullary nailing may be covered by health insurance when it is performed for a medically necessary fracture treatment. Coverage depends on your insurance policy, inclusions, and approval process.
Our insurance support team can assist you with checking your policy coverage, required documentation, cashless approval process, and insurance-related queries before treatment.
- Checking your policy coverage
- Cashless approval process
- Required documentation
- Insurance-related queries before the procedure
Dr. Hitesh Bathini
Orthopaedic Surgeon
During consultation, Dr. Hitesh Bathini, Orthopaedic Surgeon in Hyderabad, will evaluate your injury, medical history, and investigation reports to determine whether intramedullary nailing is suitable for you. He will explain the procedure, expected recovery, and guide you regarding the estimated cost based on your individual fracture and treatment requirements.
Common Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
Not sure which treatment is right for you?
Book a consultation with Dr. Bathini Hithesh and get a personalised treatment plan.