Nitinol Compression Screws in Foot and Ankle Surgery

Fracture fixation and joint arthrodesis are among the most common procedures in foot and ankle surgery. Successful outcomes rely on union between bony interfaces. With a thin and relatively delicate soft tissue envelope, the foot and ankle require implants and techniques that generate compression to achieve bony union while respecting local soft tissue anatomy. Recently, orthopedic implants comprised of nitinol metal have been demonstrated to have a unique advantage in achieving compression through the alloy’s unique inherent properties of shape memory and super elasticity. Nitinol implants offer the surgeon a tool to apply dynamic compression in fracture fixation and joint arthrodesis that adapts and persists after the patient leaves the operating room. Here we discuss the indications and use of a novel nitinol screw in foot and ankle surgery. Level of Evidence: Diagnostic Level IV. See Instructions for Authors for a complete description of levels of evidence.