Smithwick Nerve Hook

Description

Smithwick Nerve Hook

The Smithwick nerve hook is a long, blunt hook for lifting a nerve away from the tissue around it. Surgeons slip the hook under the nerve, then raise it gently for inspection or division.

A blunt, rounded tip

The tip is blunt, so it passes under a nerve without cutting it. That makes the Smithwick nerve hook a safe choice when the surgeon needs to trace a nerve through soft tissue. It also works for gentle retraction of small structures.

Two lengths

We offer 18 cm and 20 cm. The shorter hook suits shallower work. Meanwhile, the 20 cm version gives extra reach when the nerve lies deep, for example in the chest or retroperitoneum.

Where it fits

The pattern carries the name of Reginald Smithwick, who worked on sympathetic nerve surgery. Today, many teams keep one in a neurosurgery or general set. It pairs well with fine dissectors and scissors.

Picking a length

Consider how deep your usual nerve dissection goes. If most of your cases sit close to the surface, choose 18 cm. However, if you work deep, the 20 cm hook will keep your hand clear of the field.

Caring for your Smithwick nerve hook

Rinse the hook right after use so blood does not dry on the bend. Then clean the Smithwick hook using mild detergent. Check that the tip stays smooth. Dry it completely before sterilizing.

Smithwick nerve hook specifications

• Length: 18 cm or 20 cm
• Tip: blunt
• Stainless steel

Ordering nerve hooks from us

Each Smithwick hook has our three-year warranty on defects in workmanship. Before it ships, we inspect the hook tip by hand in Atlanta. Check the FAQs if you have questions about invoices. In addition, ASTM F899 is the standard covering surgical instrument steels. A shorter alternative is the Cushing nerve hook. The full neurosurgery section lists more hooks.

For professional use. Why might a nerve hook photo differ from the real item, and where does nickel come in? Our sterilization guide answers both, and the returns page sets out our return process.