Abstract: A method of forming a beaded transfixion wire for orthopedic uses. The beaded transfixion wire includes an elongated wire formed of an implant grade material. A bead is provided on the elongated wire intermediate the opposite ends thereof. The bead extends outwardly beyond the outer surface of the elongated wire and is integral therewith.In forming the beaded transfixion wire the solid bar stock is rotatably fed past a cutting tool to turn down a portion of the bar stock to a selected daiameter to provide a first portion of an elongated wire. The first portion of the elongated wire is fed into a tube for stabilizing the first portion against any whipping motion. The solid bar stock is continued to be rotated past the cutting tool while at the same time a bead is profiled from the solid bar stock with the cutting tool.

Abstract: A pin site shield is described for covering the entry or exit site of a surgical pin such as a halo pin, external fixation pin, traction pin, or surgical wire. The pin site shield comprises a collar having a slot for receipt of the surgical pin, a surgical sponge attached to the collar, and means for securing the pin in the slot. The surgical sponge includes a foam pad and a tricot material attached to the foam pad on the side remote from the collar. The surgical sponge has a slit in substantial registration with the slot in the collar, allowing the surgical pin to pass inwardly and outwardly within the slot. Preferably, the collar includes a tapped hole passing through a top side of the slot, and a screw inserted into the tapped hole secures the pin in the slot. The collar also preferably includes a nib on the bottom side of the slot for further assistance in securing the pin in the slot.