Application of an arched, Ni-Ti shape-memory connector in repairing distal tibiofibular syndesmosis ligament injury

Abstract

Abstract ObjectiveTo investigate the clinical effect of internal fixation of a Ni-Ti arched shape-memory connector in the treatment of distal tibiofibular syndesmosis ligament injury.MethodsFrom January 2013 to January 2016, 108 cases of ankle fracture with distal tibiofibular syndesmosis ligament injury in our hospital were selected, and all of them were fixed with Ni-Ti Arched shape-memory connector or screw fixation. The functional evaluation and efficacy evaluation were performed according to the Olerud Molander Ankle Score (Omas) and SF-36. At the same time, follow-ups recorded the incidence of postoperative complications: osteoarthritis, superficial infection, symptomatic hard and soft tissue irritation, early removal and poor reduction of internal fixation, and later loss of reduction.ResultsIn the ASC group, the incidence of symptomatic hardware, soft tissue or superficial infection decreased to 2.77%. The early removal rate of internal fixation was also lower than that of the screw group. Compared to 2.77%, the incidence of osteoarthritis in the later follow-up was also as low as 1.38%. Loss of fracture reduction due to removal of the fixation device for the distal tibiofibular syndesmosis ligament was not observed in the ASC group. With two postoperative scoring systems (OMAS and SF-36), patients in the ASC group were also given higher scores.ConclusionThe design of the arched, Ni-Ti d shape-memory connector can be adapted to the irregular anatomical structure of the malleolus and the ability to continue to contract through a thermostat. The use of ASCs in fixation of articular ligaments can preserve a slight range of motion, and the results suggest that ASCs can effectively reduce the incidence of fixation looseness, fracture, infection and other complications.