Abstract
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 to assess suitability for their intended functions.
Compression was measured using a load cell mounted within a simulated arthrodesis site. Two designs of mechanical compression and shape memory staples were tested and compared. The effect of altering the length of the staple limb was also assessed.
Both designs of mechanical compression staple had divergence of their fixation limbs causing inconsistent compression or even distraction. The shape memory staples all achieved a consistent compressive force at the fusion site. Staple limb length did not appear to alter the compression force generated.
The limbs of Mechanical Compression Staples splay open with a fulcrum at the intersection bridge. As a result, there is distraction of the far cortex and compression of the proximate cortex. Shape memory staples compress both the near and far cortices leading to stability and compression forces across the arthrodesis site.
The abstracts were prepared by David AF Morgan. Correspondence should be addressed to him at davidafmorgan@aoa.org.au
Declaration of interest: a
