The sternal closure device enables uncomplicated sternal  osteosynthesis to be performed, is easy to aplly and readily

adapts to the shape of the sternum.

The device is produced in bio-compatible titanium alloy which

enables NMR techniques to be used. The Sternal Closure Device is comprised of two hooks connected by a ratchet rod.

One of the hooks is fixed at one end, while the second hook can be moved along the ratchet rod.

A sternal closure applying forceps is used to bring the movable hook towards the fixed hook along the the ratchet rod.

This device allows perfect, progressive sternal compression to be achieved.

2 or 3 Sternal Closure Devices are required depending on the length of the sternum;

one is applied to the manubrium and one or two others to the body of the sternum.

The closure devices are positioned perpendicular to the major axis of the sternum.

The two hooks are applied laterally to the sternum in the two matching intercostal spaces.

1. Dissect the two intercostal spaces close to

the sternum using accepted surgical

techniques in order to clear the two lateral

edges of the sternum in the area to which

the two hooks of the closure device will be applied.

* Take care not to damage the subjacent

internal mammary artery.

* Take care not to make a subjacent pleural

opening in the anterior mediastinal-costal recess.

2. Use the applying forceps to bring the two

hooks towards one another such that the

distance between two hooks allows

positioning of the closure device rod against

the front surface of the sternum and the

hook in the prepared parasternal intercostal space.

Each hook is in contact with the lateral edge

of the sternum; the shape, height and width

of the hooks are designed to fit the sternum.

3. When the 2 or 3 closure devices have been

fitted, check the positioning and if necessary use the

applying forceps until the two sides of the

sternum are compressed.

4. Use the cutting forceps to cut off the excess rod at the base of the movable hook. If necessary, position a haemostatic compress

in the intercostal space in contact with the closure device to ensure haemostatis.The width of the hooks ensures sternal compression

without cutting the sternum.If further surgery is required the closure device may be removed immediately either

by using cutting forceps to cut the rack rod in two or by loosening the screw that fastens the fixed hook to the rod.

The operating technique is identical for pseudarthrosis. The technique should include a stage in which the two sides of the sternal bone

are stripped until macroscopically healthy bone is reached before the closure devices are used for the closing procedure.

  The Sternal Closure Applying Forceps is comprised of two jaws that are used to

grip the two hooks of the Sternal Closure Device and bring them towards one

another along the ratchet rod.

   

  The sternal Closure Cutting Forceps is used to cut off the excess ratchet rod at

the base of the movable hook and to cut the middle of the ratchet rod in two in

case immediate entry into the chest cavity is indicated.

   

3. Sternal Closure Screwdriver

  The Sternal Closure Screwdriver is used to loosen the screw on the fixed hook in

order to remove the device.