Objective To evaluate the clinical effects of memory alloy embracing fixators in fixation of the rib fractures and investigate the related surgical indications and surgical techniques.Methods Retrospectively review was conducted on the clinical data of 30 patients with rib fractures treated with memory alloy embracing fixators from October 2010 to April 2011 at General Hospital of Guangzhou Military Command.The number of memory alloy embracing fixators used in operation,the number of fixed positions,and operation time were recorded.The pain scores before and after operation were comparatively studied.Operation efficacy and complications were analyzed.Results Of the 30 patients,the total operation time,number of fixators,and number of fixed ribs were (111.9±48.0) minutes,4.3±2.1 and 3.5±1.3,respectively.Meanwhile,the difference between pre-operative and post-operative pain scores was significant (6.93±0.88) points vs (4.04±0.62) points,P＜0.05).The ambulation perlod was (4.6±1.9) days and length of hospital stay was (27.2±10.8) days.Incisional and thoracic wall hematoma was detected in three patients and pulmonary infection in six post-operatively but none presented intractable chest pain,foreign body rejection or wound infection.Conclusion Memory alloy embracing fixators for rib fractures is reliable,easy,and effective in alleviating pain,improving lung function,reducing the frequency of ventilator use and preventing complications like lung infection.