The IoFix Experiment: Follow Up

Just a quick follow up from our previous blog on the Extremity Medical IoFix Implant and our first opportunity using the new implant. A few weeks ago, we wrote about our experience with the implant, The IoFix Experiment, and how satisfied we were with the bone purchase of the post and screws. In our patient with significant osteopenia, a 4-hole locking plate failed to stabilize the bone on her opposite foot. We chose to try this implant because of its inherent stability and the need for only two holes created in the bone rather than 4 with the plate. The idea of compressing the screw heads against the intramedullary post instead of applying it directly against the cortex of the bone is a no brainer.

4 weeks post-op, (at right) the patient is well consolidated with no pain on palpation or manipulation. The radiographs demonstrate good alignment of the arthrodesis site, no fixation failure or changes and signs of trabeculation across the fusion site.

We will slowly begin to progress to weightbearing over the next few weeks, (erring on the side of caution) although it appears clinically that she is now ready to start partial weightbearing. Using the IoFix implant was a nice change of pace from the standard fixes and in this case, has proven a good option to have in your bag of tricks. Inserting the implant does require a few extra steps than the standard screw, particularly involving the post insertion. Prepare for your Iofix case by watching (and perfecting) the insertion sequence here in The Fixation Network. Stay tuned for long term follow up.