Smith-Petersen's nail or pin

Alternative eponyms

Related people

A three-flanged nail that used for stabilising fractures by preventing rotation of the neck of the femur.

Description

A special nail that on cross section has three flanges, used for stabilising fractures (fractura colli femoralis) by preventing rotation of the neck of the femur. Used in Sven Christian Johansson's method in 1931. The nail was originally made from stainless steel, later changed to Vitallium.

Bibliography

  • M. N. Smith-Petersen, E. F. Cave and G. W. van Gorder:
    Intracapsular fractures of the neck of the femur. Treatment by internal fixation.
    Archives of Surgery, Chicago, 1931, 23: 715-759.

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