RIA use in a community orthopedic trauma practice: applying technology, respecting biology

The RIA (Reamer Irrigator Aspirator) device is an incredibly powerful tool. It can be used to obtain biologically active tissue for healing at local or distant sites. Additionally, it can be used to lower the negative bioburden of disease and even to assist in diagnosis. As with any powerful tool, it should be used with detailed pre-planning and great respect. Once properly understood and implemented, the device can be used in many ways:
• Acute fracture repair with local bone grafting at the tibia and femur
• Acute fracture repair with bone graft used at a distant site.
• Acute fracture repair in the osteoporotic elderly.
• Treatment of established nonunion.
• Salvage in severe trauma.
• Diagnosis.