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Lowman bone clamp - history, dimensions, uses & precautions

What is Lowman bone clamp?

A Lowman bone clamp is a surgical instrument used to hold bones in place during certain procedures, such as fractures or osteotomies.

Overview / Product Profile of Lowman bone clamp:

Lowman bone clamp is designed with a curved jaw that allows it to grip the bone securely and a ratcheting mechanism that allows the surgeon to adjust the clamp's tightness as needed. The clamp is made of durable stainless steel and is reusable after sterilization. It is a versatile and essential tool for many types of bone surgery.

 Dimensions:

Overall length: 

Lowman bone clamp's overall length is approximately 4 inches (10.16 cm).

Jaw length: 

Lowman bone clamp's jaw length is approximately 1.5 inches (3.81 cm).

Jaw width: 

Lowman bone clamp's jaw width is approximately 0.5 inches (1.27 cm).

Handle length: 

Lowman bone clamp's handle length is approximately 2 inches (5.08 cm)

Handle diameter: 

Lowman bone clamp's handle diameter is approximately 0.5 inches (1.27 cm)

Note: The above dimensions may vary slightly depending on the manufacturer and specific design of the instrument. It's always advisable to consult with the manufacturer's specifications and guidance for accurate measurements.

Uses of Lowman bone clamp:

1) Maintaining the position of bones during surgical procedures like fracture repairs or osteotomies.
2) Putting pressure on bones when they recover from surgery.
3) Stabilising bones during the recovery process following a severe injury.
4) Keeping bones in place while they recover following a bone graft.
5) Assisting with the positioning of bones during surgery.
6) Retaining bones in place while orthopaedic hardware, such as plates and screws, are being fitted.
7) Holding bones in place while tumours or other diseased diseases are removed.
8) Holding bones in place while they are being rebuilt in the event of abnormalities.

Precautions with Lowman bone clamp:

1) Always use gloves and safety glasses when working with the lowman bone clamp.
2) Before each usage, check the clamp for any signs of wear or damage.
3) Use only where the bone or tissue is desired, and don't use too much pressure or force.
4) Prior to and following each usage, keep the clamp sterile and clean.
5) Patients with metal allergies or a history of metal sensitivities should not be clamped.
6) Use a clamp that is the right size and kind for the surgery and bone structure.
7) Keep minors and unauthorised others away from the clamp.
8) After use, dispose of the clamp properly.
9) Never use a clamp that is broken or unreliable.

History of Lowman bone clamp:

The renowned orthopaedic surgeon Dr. J.P. Lowman invented the Lowman bone clamp, also referred to as the Lowman retractor, in the early 1960s. The clamp was created as a flexible instrument for retaining and retracting soft tissue during spinal and orthopaedic operations.

A simplistic and reasonably priced tool, the Lowman bone clamp has a pair of jaws that can be altered in size and shape to fit a particular bone structure. The surgeon can place the clamp and exert the required amount of pressure because the jaws are attached to a handle.

The device developed by Dr. Lowman, quickly became  popular among orthopaedic surgeons and is now frequently used for fracture treatment, hip replacement, and spinal surgery, among other surgical procedures. The Lowman bone clamp is still in use today and has been altered over time with different designs and materials.

In conclusion, Dr. J.P. Lowman created the Lowman bone clamp in the early 1960s, and it is a flexible instrument for retaining and retracting soft tissue during orthopaedic and spinal procedures. Today, it is still utilised in many surgical operations.


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