The Use of Nitinol Staples as Reduction Aids in Fixation of Forearm Diaphyseal Fractures: Surgical Technique and Case Series.

Abstract

Forearm diaphyseal fractures are common orthopedic injuries that typically require surgical intervention using various implants and approaches. Maintaining reduction while simultaneously achieving compression in radial and/or ulnar shaft fractures during compression plate application can be challenging, particularly with unstable segmental and/or transverse fracture patterns. Nitinol compression staples have become increasingly used as a reduction aid because of their ability to provide continuous compression between the staple legs at the fracture site, low profile, and ease of application. These staples have the potential to be an effective means of maintaining reduction and applying compression before definitive plate fixation for radial and ulnar shaft fractures. We present our surgical technique and an associated patient series detailing our institution's experience, highlighting favorable outcomes and potential considerations when using nitinol compression staples for forearm fracture management.