The morphology and dimensions of the medullary canals of the proximal and middle phalanges have been studied with particular interest shown to the angle of taper of these canals. Measurements of 50 cadaveric fingers were taken from computer aided tomographic images using AutoCAD software. Tangents were fitted to the inner cortices in two orthogonal planes and the angles between them were measured. The angles of canal taper in the proximal phalanx were remarkably similar for each digit. This was also true for the middle phalanx of the index, middle and ring fingers but the taper of the middle phalanx of the little finger was found to be different.

A two-stage market research investigation (postal questionnaire followed by telephone interview) was carried out to determine the demand for courses in rehabilitation engineering. Thirty six per cent of a random sample of 200 rehabilitation professionals (physiotherapists, occupational therapists, chiropo dists, orthopaedic surgeons and rheumatologists) indicated an interest in such courses; interest levels were similar amongst recently qualified and established practitioners. Specific interests within the spectrum of rehabilitation engineering were wide ranging, indicating that comprehensive or selective courses were required. Most professionals felt that they needed a refresher course in basic mechanics before tackling any specialized rehabilitation engineering topics. Problems in attending courses were identified - study leave is difficult to obtain, with courses in day release format being most attractive. Funding of further education also presents difficulties, and although many professionals do finance courses themselves, few are willing to pay more than £200 per year.