Tarsal joint fusion using memory compression staples--a study of 10 cases

A prospective clinical study was undertaken to assess the effectiveness of Nickel-Titanium Memory compression staples for fusion of the intertarsal joints. Ten patients underwent procedures for fusion of various hindfoot and midfoot joints with the memory staples. The patients were evaluated regarding period of immobilization in cast and time to radiographic joint fusion. Arthrodesis was achieved in all patients. The average time to fusion was 7.8 weeks, with an average period of immobilization of 6.6 weeks. The early experience with the use of these staples in hindfoot and midfoot joint surgery is encouraging. We did not encounter any technical problems, and there is a suggestion that these implants may reduce the time to fusion.