Smith’s pattern consists of a slotted shaft attached to a strong steel shank that terminates in a fenestrated head through which a wire loop passes. A threaded rod, operated by a handle at the proximal end passes through the center, upon which a traveling nut may be moved back and forth as the handle is rotated. Both ends of the wire are fastened to the traveling nut so that a loop passes through the fenestrated end and may be increased or diminished in size at will.  By passing the loop about a pedicle it may be strangulated or excised. Their use fell from favor as the often damage adjacent healthy tissues. 1899 Truax - p.487.