Four-corner arthrodesis using the 4Fusion® quadripodal shape memory staple: a long-term review

Area of Science:

• Orthopedic surgery
• Hand and wrist surgery
• Biomaterials and medical devices

Background:

• Four-corner arthrodesis is a surgical procedure to treat wrist arthritis.
• The 4Fusion® quadripodal memory staple is a fixation device used in this procedure.
• Assessing the long-term reliability of this staple is crucial for clinical practice.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the reliability and clinical outcomes of the 4Fusion® quadripodal memory staple in four-corner arthrodesis.
• To assess bone union, reoperation rates, and patient-reported functional results.

Main Methods:

• A consecutive series of 59 four-corner arthrodeses using the 4Fusion® staple.
• Radiological and clinical assessments performed on 41 patients (46 wrists) at a mean follow-up of 7.4 years.
• Data collection included bone union, reoperation causes, wrist mobility, strength, and pain levels.

Main Results:

• Successful bone union was achieved in 45 out of 46 wrists (97.8%).
• Seven patients (15.2%) required reoperation, primarily for device removal (6 wrists) or nonunion (1 wrist).
• The majority of patients reported satisfaction, good functional range of motion, strength, and pain relief.

Conclusions:

• The 4Fusion® quadripodal memory staple demonstrates reliable performance in four-corner arthrodesis.
• The device facilitates high bone union rates and positive functional outcomes.
• Patient satisfaction and functional recovery are comparable to previously reported series.