Bone Files and Rasps
Bone files and rasps smooth and shape bone after it has been cut or fractured. They remove sharp edges, level a resected surface and prepare bone for the next step. A rasp typically has coarser, raised teeth that remove bone faster. A file has finer ridges for finishing a surface. A rasp is not a periosteal elevator, which lifts the periosteum instead of shaping bone.
What’s in This Collection
Putti rasps. The Putti Bone Rasp (27cm, double-ended) has straight and curved flat ends, so one instrument offers two working shapes.
Miller. The Miller Bone Rasp (7.25", double-ended, 5mm and 7mm ends) suits narrower areas. The Miller #52 Bone File (7.5") is a longer file for finishing.
Polokoff and Howard. The Polokoff Bone Files (7" and 7¼") and the Howard Bone Files (double-ended and #10) are classic file patterns. The Bone File #12A and the Bone File and Rasp (22cm, flat, 20mm) cover other widths and lengths.
Nasal. The Kleinert-Kutz Rasp (8.5", fine and coarse ends) is a nasal bone rasp, carried here as a crossover item.
Choosing
Double-ended patterns give two textures or shapes on one instrument. Choose a coarse rasp to remove bone quickly and a fine file to finish. Curved ends reach around contours, and flat ends level a surface. Match the width to the site.
Care
Bone debris packs into the teeth, so clean immediately with a brush before it dries. Inspect the teeth for wear and clogging, because a dull rasp tears bone instead of cutting it. Sterilize according to your facility’s protocol.
Related Instruments
For other orthopedic rasps and preparation tools, see Orthopedic Rasps, Bone Elevators and Raspatories and Bone Curettes and Scoops. For bone removal, see Bone Rongeurs, Bone Cutting Forceps and Bone Saw. To hold and strike, see Bone Holding Forceps, Bone Mallets and Osteotomes. For animal patients, see Veterinary Bone Rasps. For nasal work, see Rhinoplasty Surgery Instruments. For complete kits, see Orthopedic Instruments Set, or browse all Orthopedic Instruments.
Ordering
Peak Surgicals supplies bone files and rasps in bulk to hospitals, clinics and distributors worldwide, with international shipping. Contact our team for current stock and wholesale pricing.
Frequently Asked Questions
What’s the difference between a bone file and a bone rasp?
A rasp has coarser, raised teeth that remove bone faster. A file has finer ridges for finishing a surface.
What is a Putti rasp used for?
It smooths and shapes bone. The double-ended 27cm pattern has straight and curved flat ends for different contours.
Is a rasp the same as a periosteal elevator?
No. A rasp shapes bone, and an elevator lifts the periosteum off the bone.
Why are bone files and rasps double-ended?
Two ends give two shapes, widths or textures on one instrument.
How do I clean a rasp?
Brush debris out of the teeth immediately, before it dries, and sterilize according to your facility’s protocol.
How do I know when a rasp is worn?
If the teeth look rounded or stay clogged after cleaning, or the instrument tears bone instead of cutting it, replace it.
