Clinical Applications of Shape Memory Alloys Based on NiTi as Implant Materials--Possibilities in Trauma and Orthopaedic Surgery

摘要

Shape memory alloys (SMA) based on NiTi (Nitinol~R) provide fascinating mechanical characteristics, which led to various applications in clinical medicine, e. g. in spine surgery, in non-cemented hip replacement, as staples for osteosynthesis, and more. The two substantial characteristics are superelasticity and the thermally inducible shape memory effect. They provide a possibility for fabricating self-locking, self-expanding, and self-compressing implants which can be used in the field of trauma and orthopaedic surgery. The purpose of this work is to give an overview of the current clinical applications of shape memory alloys and to show possibilities of future applications of these materials in trauma and orthopaedic surgery. Resources for the review were gained from Medline, via internet, a library search and information from different manufacturers. In addition, based on treated cases, different application possibilities for the clinical use of NiTi implants are presented, current research topics are described and recent developments are discussed. Implants consistent of NiTi alloys enable new possibilities in trauma and orthopaedic surgery and future innovations in the field of osteosynthetic treatment can be expected.