The present invention is directed to a radiolucent aiming guide for
locating and drilling through the holes in the distal end of an implanted
intramedullary nail. The aiming guide comprises an elongate handle
constructed substantially of a radiolucent material, which does not cast
a strong image on a monitor when exposed to radiation. The radiolucent
handle is used in conjunction with a protection sleeve, trocar, drill
sleeve, and drill bit, which are used to locate and drill through the
hole in the nail. Radiopaque components in the distal end of the
protection sleeve, trocar, and drill bit are used to align the drill over
the nail hole. A pair of radiopaque pins, located within the handle and
lying parallel to its longitudinal axis, aid in ensuring the proper
rotational alignment of the aiming guide over the nail hole. The aiming
guide may also include a structure to facilitate its alignment over a
second hole in the distal end of the intramedullary nail.