Device for driving fixation elements into bone and method of use thereof

An implanting device for driving a fastener or fixation element into bone, comprising:

• a chamber for holding at least one fastener or fixation element,
• a barrel having a proximal end and a distal end, wherein said proximal end is connected to said chamber for propelling said fastener or fixation element from said chamber,
• a propellant source functionally connected to said chamber, and
• a mechanism for releasing propellant from said propellant source into said chamber and charging said chamber in order to propel said fastener or fixation element from said chamber through said barrel and driving said fastener or fixation element into bone contacted with said distal end, wherein said propellant directly engages said fastener or fixation element to drive the fastener or fixation element without the use of a piston.