We surgeons are privileged in having a profession which also encompasses a craft; by it we should have understanding of the problems of craftsmanship in modern life. Ultimately it is at the core of human happiness. Craftsmanship is based upon creative ability, good design, the almost loving conflict of man and material, and the consequent unification of both in completion. Craftsmanship is only possible as a manifestation of individuality. Integrity and invulnerability are its outcome.

May it not be that in the atomic age (if there is one outside of destruction) there may be a return to the craftsman's life of the eighteenth century; not of necessity for the maintenance of economic life, because that will be done for him by the machine, but rather for the maintenance of health?

This annotation discusses the findings of two papers in the current issue describing the management of the neurovascular complications of supracondylar fractures of the humerus in childhood, with particular reference to the indications for and the timing of exploration of the brachial artery and the affected nerves.

The clinical results of 26 digits (18 patients) lengthened by distraction callotasis were evaluated and the factors which influenced healing were analysed. There were 14 men and four women, with a mean age of 39 years. All digits had suffered traumatic amputation. There were eight thumbs and 18 fingers. The level of the site of the osteotomy was at the proximal metaphysis in ten, the middle diaphysis in 13 and the distal metaphysis in three.

Although the proposed length was achieved in 23 of the 26 digits, five required additional bone grafts. The rate of healing was 96 days/cm in the digits without complications such as callus fracture or poor callus formation, and 158 days/cm in those with complications. Lengthening at the proximal metaphysis gave a better result than at the diaphysis or distal metaphysis.