Pre-Close Statement

Smith & Nephew Plc
19 December 2001


19 December 2001



Smith & Nephew 2001 Pre-Close Trading Update


Smith & Nephew, the global medical devices company, is to speak to analysts
today to provide a trading update ahead of the close period preceding the
Preliminary Results announcement expected on 7 February 2002.



The group has continued its strong performance into the second half,
increasing the underlying rate of sales growth in the ongoing businesses to
13% for the full year, compared with 9% in 2000, and 12% in the first half of
2001.  Acquisitions will add a further 6% to this, and currency a further 2%.



Chris O'Donnell, Chief Executive said 'During 2001 our Orthopaedics business
has retained its position as the fastest growing implant company, with knees,
hips and trauma nails each growing at above 20%.  Endoscopy has accelerated
its pace, supported by the continued introduction of new products and our
shoulder fixation acquisition.  Wound Management has achieved a substantial
re-positioning with two acquisitions and a disposal, whilst at the same time
achieving an underlying growth that outperforms the market.



'Our sharper focus on advanced medical devices, and the investments we have
made in recent years in new products and in expanding our sales force,
continued to provide real momentum.'





Enquiries


Chris O'Donnell, Chief Executive                     Tel: [phone]
Smith & Nephew plc

Peter Hooley, Finance Director                       Tel: [phone]

Smith & Nephew plc

Margaret Stewart, Group Director, Corporate Affairs  Tel: [phone]
Smith & Nephew plc

David Yates                                          Tel: [phone]
Financial Dynamics






The briefing to analysts will be by conference call today at 3pm UK time, and
can be heard by live audio webcast via the Smith & Nephew website
www.smith-nephew.com.  A recording of the briefing will be available on the
Smith & Nephew website after the call.