A new bone-holding clamp for use during internal fixation of fractures

A new bone-holding clamp for general use during internal fixation of tubular bone fractures is described. The clamp overcomes the common problem of slippage of the reduced position of fracture ends during internal fixation. Further advantages include minimal damage to the periosseous soft tissue and periosteum, which means that the blood vessels are preserved, and the unrestricted working area provided during the operation. Owing to its design the clamp also acts as a self-retaining retractor. The clamp could be described as that 'extra hand' for which the surgeon so often feels the need during the critical stages of osteosynthesis.