Sternal clamp with rib extension

Abstract

A sternal closure clamp device for securing and retaining longitudinally divided halves of a sternum, the device having a pair of body members each having engagement members adapted to abut the sides of the sternal halves, and at least one rib extension member having rib retaining means attached to at least one of said body members, such that the rib extension member can be secured to a rib to reduce the force being applied directly to the sternal halves.

Description

[0001]This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Patent Application Ser. No. 61 / 069,982, filed Mar. 19, 2008.BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION[0002]This invention generally relates to devices used to rejoin a human sternum that has been severed longitudinally, and more particularly relates to such devices that function in a clamping manner to retain the severed sternum portions in a closed and abutting relationship post-operatively.[0003]It is often necessary in surgical operations to longitudinally sever the patient's sternum so that the ribs may be spread to provide access to internal organs such as the heart. It is then necessary to secure the sternum halves together for post-operative recovery. Various closure techniques are used to accomplish this task. For example, holes may be drilled into the sternum halves and suture material passed through and tightened to cinch the sternum halves together. Apertured plates may be added to further rigidify the sternum post-operative...

AI Technical Summary

Problems solved by technology

In certain circumstances, the strength and rigidity of the sternum may be insufficient to withstand the compressive forces of the sternal clamp, such that the sternum may be damaged upon compression of the sternal clamp or such that overtime the weakness of the sternum results in damage from the clamp.

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