Abstract: A stapling device developed for orthopaedic use is in two cooperable parts including: a locator (10) in the form of a generally tubular member having a pair of opposed parallel grooves (16) extending longitudinally over one end portion of the inner surface of the member to receive the legs of a staple (30) of appropriate size entered head first into the one end, and having pin or other penetrating means (17) projecting from the one end of the member for a short length compared to the grooves to be entered into bone or other material to stabilize the locator in a desired position relative thereto; and a punch (20) longer than the locator and slidable therein over substantially the whole locator length from its other end to drive a staple therefrom. The one end portion of the locator preferably has its interior narrowed to a slot form (14) with the grooves at the slot ends, and its exterior tapered or otherwise similarly shaped with pins at each end adjacent the grooves, to facilitate staple location.

Abstract: An external fixation device for orthopaedic fractures is provided comprising: a longitudinally-slotted elongate member (20); a plurality of like clamps (30) of two-part form, suitably a longitudinally-bored bolt (31) and nut (38), interconnectable about the member, a first one (31) of such parts serving to clamp a bone pin (10); and a drill guide (40) suitably of split bush form adapted for interchange with one (31) of said clamp parts in connection with the other clamp part (38); each clamp and guide being adapted when connected with the member respectively to align a bone pin and drill, which can be the pin itself, in a common predetermined direction relative to the member. This device facilitates parallel alignment of an array of bone pins by use of the guide and clamps in successive connection with the member to determine a common frame of reference.