Interlocking medullary nails--radiation doses in distal targeting.

Distal interlocking of intramedullary nails involves the use of a fluoroscope and a targeting device. A specially designed awl makes the interlocking procedure simple and efficient. The 30-cm-long side arm of this awl protects the surgeon's hand from direct radiation, and measurements of X-ray exposure show that the protection against radiation is sufficient.