What Makes This One New
We previously used a flame-polished edge that required removing the protective film at the first stage of production. That made it nearly impossible to protect the acrylic from scratches during assembly, and it created unnecessary waste — we tossed a lot of scratched acrylic.
In one recent instance, flame-polished edges combined with certain cleaning practices and solutions caused “crazing” — micro-cracking along the edges. That’s resolved now. The new edge finish eliminates both problems.
Specifications
- Base type: Acrylic, free-standing
- Surface: Horizontal — X-ray table, upright bucky work (placed on floor or stepstool), or slid beneath the patient
- Arm length: 24″
- Minimum radius: 4.5″
- Ball: 25.4 mm (1″) solid 316 stainless steel
- Product weight: 24 oz
- Shipping weight: 2 lbs
- Warranty: 1 year against manufacturer defects
- Country of origin: Designed and assembled in the USA
Note: The stainless steel calibration ball is solid — it doesn’t degrade when surrounded by larger body mass, and it won’t distort in digital X-ray imaging.
Common Clinical Applications
- Orthopedic Templating: Ensuring 1:1 magnification for total joint replacement planning.
- Veterinary Surgery: Accurate sizing for fracture repair and hip dysplasia assessment.
- Trauma Radiology: Rapid, precise reference marking in fast-paced ER imaging environments.
- Pediatric Orthopedics: Maintaining consistent magnification references for growing skeletons.
Why a 25.4 mm Calibration Sphere?
Surgical templating software needs a known reference object in the image to calculate magnification. A 1-inch (25.4 mm) solid sphere is the standard because it presents the same diameter regardless of imaging angle — unlike a disc or coin, which can appear elliptical if tilted. Position it at the anatomical plane of the joint, and the software does the rest. Skip the marker, and you’re guessing on implant size.
Why Choose OrthoMark?
OrthoMark has been the trusted name in surgical magnification markers for over 20 years. We don’t just sell markers; we provide the precision tools necessary for accurate digital planning. Our commitment to solid 316 stainless steel calibration spheres and durable mounts ensures that your templating software receives an undistorted, reliable reference every single time, regardless of the imaging environment.
Need a Different Mount?
Every OrthoMark uses the same 25.4 mm calibration ball and adjustable arm. The only thing that changes is how it attaches:
- OM-1002 — Magnetic base for ferrous surfaces
- OM-1003 — Suction cup for smooth, non-porous surfaces
- OM-1004 — Twist-action suction cup
- OM-1006 — Short & Quick suction mount
- OM-1008 — Strap model for patient-worn use
- OM-1009 — Lever-action 2.7″ suction mount
- OM-1010 — Super 2.9″ plunger suction mount
- OM-1011 — Large clamp base
- OM-1012 — Small clamp base for grab handles and rails


