A1.3.1 This test method is used to determine the fatigue resistance of metallic bone staples when subjected to repetitive loading for large numbers of cycles. This information may also be useful for comparing the effect of variations in staple material, geometry, surface condition, or placement under certain circumstances.

A1.3.2 It is essential that uniform fatigue practices be established in order that such basic fatigue data be comparable and reproducible and can be correlated among laboratories.

A1.3.3 The results of fatigue tests are suitable for direct application to design only when the service conditions parallel the test conditions exactly. This test method may not be appropriate for all types of bone staple applications. The user is cautioned to consider the appropriateness of the test method in view of the materials being tested and their potential application.

This specification covers characterization of the design and mechanical function of metallic staples used in the internal fixation of the muscular skeletal system. It is not the intention of this specification to describe or specify specific designs for metallic bone staples. Different test methods shall be performed in order to determine the following mechanical properties of metallic bone staples: bending fatigue, pull-out fixation strength, soft tissue fixation strength, and elastic static bending.

1.1 This specification covers characterization of the design and mechanical function of metallic staples used in the internal fixation of the musculoskeletal system. It is not the intention of this specification to describe or specify specific designs for metallic bone staples.

1.2 This specification includes the following four test methods for measuring mechanical properties of metallic bone staples:

1.2.1 Test Method for Constant Amplitude Bending Fatigue Tests of Metallic Bone Staples—Annex A1.

1.2.2 Test Method for Pull-Out Fixation Strength of Metallic Bone Staples—Annex A2.

1.2.3 Test Method for Soft Tissue Fixation Strength of Metallic Bone Staples—Annex A3.

1.2.4 Test Method for Elastic Static Bending of Metallic Bone Staples—Annex A4.

1.3 The values stated in SI units are to be regarded as standard. Any other units of measurement included in this standard are shown for reference only.

1.4 Multiple test methods are included in this standard. However, the user is not necessarily obligated to test using all of the described methods. Instead, the user should only select, with justification, test methods that are appropriate for a particular device design. This may be only a subset of the herein described test methods.

1.5 This standard does not purport to address all of the safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appropriate safety, health and environmental practices and determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use.

1.6 This international standard was developed in accordance with internationally recognized principles on standardization established in the Decision on Principles for the Development of International Standards, Guides and Recommendations issued by the World Trade Organization Technical Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee.