Steinmann pin - history, dimensions, uses & precautions


What is Steinmann pin ?

A Steinmann Pin is a type of medical instrument used in orthopaedic surgery(skeletal traction of femoral fractures).

 Overview / Product Profile of Steinmann pin:

A Steinmann Pin is a long, thin metal pin that is inserted into a bone to support it while it heals. The pin's length is indicated by the 225mm, and its diameter is shown by the 09mm. These pins are frequently utilised in spinal and hip procedures, as well as in femur and tibia fractures.

Dimensions:

Length: 

Steinmann pin's length is approx. 225mm.

Diameter: 

Steinmann pin's diameter is approx. 09mm.

Shape: 

Steinmann pin's shape is Long, thin and cylindrical.

Insertion method: 

Steinmann pin is inseted Surgically by drilling.

Removal: 

Steinmann pin can be Permanent or can be removed if temporary, depending on the case.

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 Steinmann pin:

1) Surgical equipment: Steinmann pin could be used to join several components, like holding blades or needles in place, to make up a surgical instrument.
2) Orthopaedic fixation: Steinmann pins are frequently used to fixate fractured bones during orthopaedic surgery. To keep the bone in place as it heals, these pins are placed through the skin and into the bone.
3) Implants: Steinmann pin 225/09 mm may be utilised in the production of medical implants, including spinal fixation devices, prosthetic devices, and joint replacements.
4) Dental surgery: The pin could be used as a fixation tool to hold a dental implant or dental prosthetic in place during dental surgery.
5) Cardiovascular surgery: During surgery, a heart valve can be held in place with a Steinmann pin.

Precautions with Steinmann pin:

1) Proper sterilization: It is important to ensure that the pin and all equipment used in the procedure are properly sterilized to prevent infection.
2) Proper training: Only trained and qualified person should handle and use the pin.
3) Proper placement: The Steinmann pin should be placed in the proper location to ensure stability and prevent injury to surrounding structures.
4) Proper size and compatibility: Use the correct size and type of Steinmann pin for the specific procedure and ensure compatibility with the other equipment and implants used.
5) Monitoring: Monitor the patient's condition after the procedure to ensure that the pin is functioning properly and that there are no complications such as infection or nerve damage.
6) Follow-up visits: Schedule follow-up visits with the patient to monitor the healing process and ensure that the pin is properly removed when healing is complete.
7) Use appropriate level of force: Use the appropriate level of force when inserting the pin to avoid injury to surrounding tissue and nerve damage.
7) X-ray or CT scans: Take x-ray or CT scan to confirm the correct position of the pin and to monitor for any complications.

History of Steinmann pin:

In orthopaedic surgery, a flexible intramedullary pin called a Steinmann pin is used to treat fractured bones. The German orthopaedic surgeon Dr. Ernst Steinmann gave the pin its name after he initially reported its application in the late 1940s. The Steinmann pin is intended to hold the bone in place while it heals and is placed through the skin and into the bone.

One of the first intramedullary treatments for long bone fractures was the Steinmann pin, which was first created as an alternative to external fixing methods like plaster casts. Compared to external fixation, the Steinmann pin was able to offer more exact control of the fracture orientation and enable the patient's earlier mobilisation.

The Steinmann pin was frequently used in the 1970s and 1980s to repair fractures of the femoral and tibial shafts as well as fractures involving the growth plate. With the advent of more modern intramedullary devices like the retrograde nail and the antegrade nail in the 1990s, the Steinmann pin's popularity started to fall.

The Steinmann pin is still employed occasionally today, particularly in developing nations where more sophisticated technologies might not be accessible. However, compared to more recent intramedullary devices, it is thought to be a less common alternative.


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