title: An improvised depth gauge using a hypodermic needle.
abstract: A simple solution to the problem of a broken depth gauge is suggested. A hypodermic needle is bent to simulate the shape of a depth gauge and used in a similar way. This allows measurement of the screw length against the scale on the set. We would advocate this method only when there is no suitable alternative depth gauge available.
authors.affiliation: Christine M. Kleinert Institute for Hand and Microsurgery, Louisville, Kentucky 40202, USA.
authors.forename: G D
authors.initials: GD
authors.lastname: Smith
authors.forename: R
authors.initials: R
authors.lastname: Moreno
mesh_terms: D001863:Bone Screws; D005593:Fracture Fixation, Internal / Q000295:instrumentation*; D006801:Humans; D009339:Needles; D013525:Surgical Instruments