Statement re analyst visit

Smith & Nephew Plc
22 May 2002

22 May 2002


Smith & Nephew analyst visit

Smith & Nephew, the global advanced medical devices group, today began a one day
visit of analysts and institutional investors to the headquarters of its
endoscopy business in Andover, Mass.  During the visit, guests have the
opportunity to meet senior management and receive presentations on products and
Endoscopy's research and development programme.

The visit is hosted by Chief Executive Chris O'Donnell, who told the visitors: 
'Our endoscopy business is already the world leader in minimally invasive 
surgery for joints.  We intend to maintain our strength in this area, and also 
use it as a platform to expand into other carefully selected and 
procedure-specific areas where our knowledge of minimally invasive techniques 
can benefit patients, surgeons and healthcare providers.

'We intend to grow this business organically and by acquisition, and I am
pleased to report that Endoscopy's recent acquisition of Oratec is living up to
our expectations, with integration proceeding on schedule.'



Enquiries:



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

David Yates                                            Tel: [phone]
Financial Dynamics



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