A biomechanical comparison of shape memory compression staples and mechanical compression staples: compression or distraction?
Compression staples are a popular form of fixation for osteotomy and arthrodesis. "Mechanical compression" or "shape memory" designs are commercially available. We performed a biomechanical study comparing these designs. A load cell measured compression across a simulated fusion site. The two designs available were tested and compared. The effect of altering staple limb length was also assessed. The limbs of all mechanical compression staples diverged causing inconsistent compression and distraction. Shape memory staples all achieved consistent compression across the fusion site with significantly greater maximum force when compared to mechanical compression staples (P < 0.001). Staple limb length did not appear to alter compression force generated. Mechanical compression staples cause a distractive force, and we therefore suggest alternate forms of fixation for arthrodesis. Shape memory staples do provide compression and may be suitable for arthrodesis and osteotomy.
Farr
David
D
North Hampshire Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, Basingstoke, Hampshire, RG24 9NA, UK.
Karim
Amer
A
Lutz
Michael
M
Calder
James
J
D001174:Arthrodesis / Q000295:instrumentation* / Q000379:methods; D001696:Biomechanical Phenomena; D019245:Compressive Strength; D004867:Equipment Design; D019544:Equipment Failure Analysis; D006801:Humans; D016268:Internal Fixators; D008422:Materials Testing; D010027:Osteotomy / Q000295:instrumentation* / Q000379:methods; D013537:Sutures
J Foot Ankle Surg. 2007 Jan-Feb;46(1):7-15
17198947
Am J Sports Med. 2005 Jul;33(7):1057-64
15888714
Head Neck. 2001 Jan;23(1):1-7
11150064
J R Coll Surg Edinb. 1973 May;18(3):177-9
4708172
Biomed Mater Eng. 1996;6(4):307-12
8980838
Tech Hand Up Extrem Surg. 2006 Dec;10(4):231-4
17159479
Foot Ankle Int. 2002 Feb;23(2):97-101
11858342
Injury. 1993 Dec;24(10):651-5
8288355
Zhonghua Wai Ke Za Zhi. 1983 Jun;21(6):343-5
6641431
J Foot Ankle Surg. 2004 Sep-Oct;43(5):312-7
15480407
J Am Podiatr Med Assoc. 2006 Mar-Apr;96(2):102-6
16546946
J Bone Joint Surg Br. 2005 Sep;87(9):1171-7
16129737
J Foot Ankle Surg. 2006 Mar-Apr;45(2):113-7
16513506