U.S. patent application number 10/095324 was filed with the patent office on 2003-05-01 for method and apparatus for closing a severed sternum.
Invention is credited to Miller, Archibald S. III.
Application Number | 20030083694 10/095324 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 26669764 |
Filed Date | 2003-05-01 |
United States Patent
Application |
20030083694 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Miller, Archibald S. III |
May 1, 2003 |
Method and apparatus for closing a severed sternum
Abstract
A sternal closure device comprising impermanently joined sliding
and receiving attachment structures which are adapted for
intercostal positioning between at least two corresponding rib
pairs and substantially surrounding a patient's sternum with each
structure having a cross member, a plurality of integrated legs and
foot members, a plurality of sternum engagement surfaces, and an
end portion. The receiving structure further incorporates a
resiliently tensioned catch member with angularly disposed teeth
like structures positioned to receive and position a plurality of
receiving structure projection members when inserted therein. The
catch member further serves as a stabilizing structure for the
entire apparatus with stabilization facilitated via an easily
removed single screw like structure markedly facilitates quick
release of the apparatus positioned and secured. The projection
members further embody complimenting positioned teeth like
structures to provide for racheting, unidirectional entry and
positioning within the receiving structure, whereupon complimentary
teeth engagement surfaces on catch and receiving member projection
members facilitate secure and precision positioning of the
invention.
Inventors: |
Miller, Archibald S. III;
(Tulsa, OK) |
Correspondence
Address: |
HEAD, JOHNSON & KACHIGIAN
228 W 17TH PLACE
TULSA
OK
74119
US
|
Family ID: |
26669764 |
Appl. No.: |
10/095324 |
Filed: |
March 7, 2002 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
|
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10095324 |
Mar 7, 2002 |
|
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10001988 |
Oct 31, 2001 |
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Current U.S.
Class: |
606/216 |
Current CPC
Class: |
A61B 17/8076 20130101;
Y10T 24/44607 20150115; Y10T 24/44624 20150115; A61B 17/8004
20130101; A61B 17/8009 20130101; Y10T 24/44615 20150115; A61B
2017/8655 20130101; A61B 17/823 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
606/216 |
International
Class: |
A61B 017/08 |
Claims
What is claimed is:
1. A sternal closure device comprising impermanently joined sliding
and receiving attachment structures which are adapted for
intercostal positioning between at least two correspondingly
positioned rib pairs substantially surrounding a patient's sternum
each structure having a cross member, a plurality of integrated leg
and foot portions, and a plurality of sternum engagement surfaces,
and an end portion.
2. The device of claim 1 wherein said receiving structure further
comprises a resiliently tensioned locking member with angularly
disposed teeth like structures outwardly positioned at first and
second ends of said locking member and a securing aperture
substantially centered there between.
3. The device of claim 1 wherein said sliding structure further
comprises a plurality of projection members with angularly disposed
teeth like structures inwardly positioned on each innermost surface
of each projection member.
4. The device of claim 1 wherein said sternum engagement surfaces
contacts the frontal portion of a sternum.
5. The device of claim 1 wherein said sternum engagement surfaces
contacts the posterior portion of a sternum.
6. The device of claim 1 wherein said sternum engagement surfaces
contact the frontal and posterior portions of a sternum.
7. The device of claim 1 wherein said receiving and attachment
structures further comprises a securing means to facilitate the
operative securing of said structures to one another.
8. The surgical device of claim 1 wherein said clamp members are
made from biocompatible material.
9. The surgical device of claim 1 wherein said material comprises a
radiolucent biocompatible material.
10. The sternal closure device of claim 1 wherein said first and
second attachment structures are sized and dimensioned to engage
opposite sides of a patient's severed sternum while positioned
intercostally between at least two corresponding rib pairs.
11. The sternal closure device of claim 1 wherein said device
further comprises a screw type fastening means to removably attach
said sliding and receiving attachment structures.
12. A method of closing a patient's sternum following a sternotomy
comprising: positioning sliding and receiving attachment structures
about a respective sternal half and between at least two
correspondingly positioned rib pairs; aligning opposed positioned
sliding and receiving attachment structures for subsequent
insertion of sliding structure projection members into receiving
chambers of said receiving attachment structure; positioning foot
members of attachment and receiving structures upon the posterior
section of said sternum to maximize sternal healing surface
contact; and, removably positioning and securing teeth like
structures on each end of a locking member to abut complimenting
teeth like surface area's located on a plurality of invention
projection members said projection members within said receiving
chambers.
Description
REFERENCE TO PENDING APPLICATIONS
[0001] This application is a continuation-in-part of the parent
case, Ser. No. 10/001,988, filed Oct. 31, 2001, entitled Method and
Apparatus for Closing A Severed Sternum. Said parent case
application incorporated by reference herein in its entirety.
REFERENCE TO MICROFICHE APPENDIX
[0002] This application is not referenced in any microfiche
appendix.
TECHNICAL FIELD OF THE INVENTION
[0003] This invention relates generally to surgical devices. More
specifically, the present invention relates to improved sternum
clamping devices and methods to reapproximate a patient's sternum
following a partial median sternotomy.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0004] A partial or median sternotomy is a procedure by which a saw
or other appropriate cutting instrument is used to make a midline,
longitudinal incision along a portion or the entire axial length of
the patient's sternum, allowing two opposing sternal halves to be
separated laterally. A large opening into the thoracic cavity is
thus created, through which a surgeon may directly visualize and
operate upon the heart and other thoracic organs or tissues.
Following such a procedure, the two severed sternal halves must be
reapproximated.
[0005] Traditionally, sternal halves have been reapproximated with
stainless steel wires wrapped around or through the sternal halves
so as to exert medial compression thereon and twisted together to
approximate the sternum. Other methods of sternum repair include
the use of band or strap assemblies which typically include a
locking mechanism, which secures a strap in a closed looped
configuration about the sternum positions. While utilization of
steel wires and strap assemblies have been widely accepted for
sternum repair, these devices present a number of disadvantages.
Steel wires can and do break, and provide insufficient(non-uniform)
clamping force resulting in sternal nonunion. Steel wires are
difficult to maneuver and place around the sternum. The cut ends of
the steel wires are also sharp and can pierce through the surgeon's
gloves or fingers. In addition, the small diameter of the steel
wires can cause the wires to migrate into or through the tissue
surrounding the sternum region or into the sternal bone itself over
time and result in sternal disintegration into small segments. This
can lead to significant patient pain and discomfort in addition to
slowing the postoperative recovery and increasing the risk of
sternal infection. Moreover, the strap mechanisms of band
assemblies are often relatively structurally complex and are
difficult to precisely apply about the sternum. There are also
healing problems associated with the use of steel wires and band
assemblies due to improper forces exerted by these devices which
can cause unwanted bone movements leading to raking and rubbing of
surrounding tissue or bone.
[0006] Several other techniques of sternal reapproximation have
been proposed both for primary closure following a median
sternotomy and for reclosure following post-operative emergency
surgical procedures. One such sternal fixation device is described
in U.S. Pat. No. 6,051,007 entitled External Closure Device and
Instruments Therefor, the entire contents of which are incorporated
by reference.
[0007] The sternum closure device of U.S. Pat. No. 6,051,007
however is clearly absent the benefits and teachings of the instant
invention. Most particularly foot portions (20, 40) of the '007
device are limited to two points of contact on the posterior
section of a patient's sternum and consequently lack the stability
and positioning enhancement features of the instant invention.
Quite distinguishable, from the '007 patent and other devices
practiced in the contemporary art is the present invention's novel
structure which advances the art, as does the invention embodiment
disclosed in association with patent application, Ser. No.
10/001,988, filed on Oct. 31, 2001, by allowing and encouraging
divided sternal plates to be tilted upward to maximize healing
surfaces in apposition to each other, thus avoiding downward plate
deflection and substandard healing. Also consistent with parent
application, Ser. No. 10/001,988, and distinguishable from devices
of the contemporary art, the instant invention spans the width of
at least two interspaces, thus eliminating the need for more than
one device for tight/secured closure over the same sternal area.
The four securing leg and foot structures of the instant invention
improve pulmonary mechanics by assisting in the alignment of ribs
across the sternotomy allowing for simultaneous right and left rib
elevation symmetrically across the sternum and chest. The
projection member structures of the instant invention leverage the
tight connections provided by fascia and muscle, strengthens
pulmonary compliance and allows for distribution of energy and
positioning strength to be spread evenly throughout the sternum.
Most distinguishable from the contemporary art, the instant
invention enables fragmented segments of the sternum to be held in
place for healing, as opposed to single plate structures of the
contemporary art which concentrate (as opposed to distribute)
energy occasionally to a crushing central point thereby allowing
laterally displaced fragments to further displace.
[0008] The above is a brief description of some deficiencies in the
prior art and advantages of the present invention. Other features,
advantages, and embodiments of the invention will be apparent to
those skilled in the art from the following description,
accompanying drawings and claims.
BRIEF SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0009] The present invention provides an improved device and method
for re-approximating the sternal halves of a patient's sternum
following a median or partial sternotomy, and facilitates ready
access to the thoracic cavity during or after a medical procedure
advanced the art by overcoming the sternal nonunion problems
inherent in prior art devices.
[0010] The present invention advances the present art and provides
for an improved sternum clamping device which employs first and
second attachment structures; and angled foot members which
facilitate tilting divided sternal plates upward in apposition to
each other avoiding prevent downward deflection to enhance
healing.
[0011] The following disclosure teaches the structure and practice
of a method for a sternal closure device, which comprises
impermanently joined, sliding and receiving attachment structures
that are adapted for intercostal positioning between at least two
correspondingly positioned rib pairs substantially surrounding a
patient's sternum with each structure having a cross member, a
plurality of integrated leg and foot portions, a plurality of
sternum engagement surfaces, and an end portion. The instant
invention disclosed herein advances the art and is a continuation
in part of U.S. patent application, Ser. No. 10/001,988, filed Oct.
31, 2001. Said previously filed parent application is incorporated
by reference herein in its entirety.
[0012] Another significant object of the instant invention is to
facilitate sternum closure via two separate attachment structures
from opposing sides which decreases the amount of metal needed for
clamping/securing structures.
[0013] An additional object of the invention is to provide for two
independently adjustable locking means which distribute the
strength of a sternum closure, equally and laterally, and
essentially appose opposing rib segments along the same plane.
[0014] Another object of the instant invention is to provide a
device wherein the width of two separate sequentially occurring rip
intraspaces are associated with the invention's clamping structures
to eliminate need for multiple devices to facilitate sternum
closure over the same area.
[0015] A further object of the instant invention is to provide a
small locking member and clamping apparatus which results in
decreased apparatus profile and weight but not closure
strength.
[0016] Yet another object of the instant invention is to provide
for a single locking mechanism which improves pulmonary mechanics
by assisting in the alignment of the ribs across a sternotomy, thus
permitting simultaneous right and left rib elevation symmetrically
across the sternum and chest.
[0017] A further object of the instant invention is to provide for
a single locking mechanism which leverages ribs connected by fascia
and muscle strengthening pulmonary compliance.
[0018] An additional object of the instant invention is to provide
a mechanism and method by which the distribution of closure energy
and strength are spread evenly throughout the sternum enabling even
fragmented segments of the sternum to be held in place for
healing.
[0019] Yet another object of the instant invention is to provide an
apparatus by which the strength of the sternal closure is actually
increased and distributed by means of a double clamping mechanism
over a correspondingly positioned rib pair.
[0020] An additional further object of the instant invention is to
provide an apparatus by which the alignment of apposing ribs
actually increases the strength of the closure as well as pulmonary
force expiratory volume.
[0021] Yet another object of the instant invention is to provide an
apparatus in which the edges are smooth to prevent dehiscence or
extrusion.
[0022] Another object of the instant invention is to provide for an
easily accessible and expeditious means by which sliding and
receiving attachment structures may be engaged to, and disengaged
from on another.
[0023] Another object of the instant invention is its single set
screw which when removed, allows rapid, complete disarticulation of
the apparatus allowing almost instantaneous surgical access in the
event of an emergency procedure.
[0024] Additional objects and advantages of the invention are set
forth, in part, in the description which follows and, in part, will
be apparent to one of ordinary skill in the art from the
description and/or from the practice of the invention. These
together with other objects of the invention, along with the
various features of novelty which characterize the invention, are
pointed out with particularity in the claims annexed to and forming
a part of this disclosure. For a better understanding of the
invention, its operating advantages and the specific objects
attained by its uses, reference would be had to the accompanying
drawings, depictions and descriptive matter in which there is
illustrated preferred embodiments and results of the invention.
DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0025] FIG. 1 illustrates a frontal view of one embodiment of the
instant invention as practiced in its joined or associated
state.
[0026] FIG. 2 illustrates a posterior view of one embodiment of the
instant invention as practiced in its joined or associated
state.
[0027] FIG. 3 illustrates a side view of one embodiment of the
instant invention as practiced in its joined or associated
state.
[0028] FIG. 4 illustrates distinguishable elements of one
embodiment of the instant invention in a disassociated state.
[0029] FIG. 5 illustrates a posterior view of one embodiment of the
instant invention's sliding attachment structure with the
invention's locking member positioned therein.
[0030] FIG. 6 illustrates a posterior view of the instant invention
intercostally positioned above and below at least two
correspondingly positioned rib pairs and substantially surrounding
a patient's sternum.
[0031] FIG. 7 illustrates a frontal view of the instant invention
intercostally positioned above and below at least two
correspondingly positioned rib pairs and substantially surrounding
a patient's sternum.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENT
[0032] While the making and using of various embodiments of the
present invention are discussed in detail below, it should be
appreciated that the present invention provides for inventive
concepts capable of being embodied in a variety of specific
contexts. The specific embodiments discussed herein are merely
illustrative of specific manners in which to make and use the
invention and are not to be interpreted as limiting the scope of
the instant invention.
[0033] The claims and the specification describe the invention
presented and the terms that are employed in the claims draw their
meaning from the use of such terms in the specification. The same
terms employed in the prior art may be broader in meaning than
specifically employed herein. Whenever there is a question between
the broader definition of such terms used in the prior art and the
more specific use of the terms herein, the more specific meaning is
meant.
[0034] While the invention has been described with a certain degree
of particularity, it is clear that many changes may be made in the
details of construction and the arrangement of components without
departing from the spirit and scope of this disclosure. It is
understood that the invention is not limited to the embodiments set
forth herein for purposes of exemplification, but is to be limited
only by the scope of the attached claim or claims, including the
full range of equivalency to which each element thereof is
entitled.
[0035] Referring to the drawings like numerals indicate like
elements, one embodiment of an improved sternal closure device
according to the present invention is shown in FIGS. 1 through
7.
[0036] The following disclosure teaches the structure and practice
of a method for a sternal closure device, which comprises
impermanently jawing, sliding and receiving attachment structures
that are adapted for intercostal positioning between at least two
correspondingly positioned rib pairs substantially surrounding a
patient's sternum with each structure having a cross member, a
plurality of integrated leg and foot portions, a plurality of
sternum engagement surfaces, and an end portion. The instant
invention disclosed herein advances the art and is a continuation
in part of U.S. patent application, Ser. No. 10/001,988, filed Oct.
31, 2001. Said previously filed parent application is incorporated
by reference herein in its entirety.
[0037] FIG. 1 illustrates a frontal view of one embodiment of the
instant invention when practiced in a joined or associated state.
As can be seen in FIG. 1, a sliding attachment structure 3
comprises a cross member 5, a plurality of leg structures 7, and a
plurality of projection members 9 with each projection member
further embodying a number of angularly disposed teeth like
structures 10 which are inwardly disposed and positioned on the
innermost edges of each said projection members 9.
[0038] Continuing with FIG. 1, the projection members 9 are
inserted through, generally u-shaped receiving chambers formed on
the lower most surface of receiving attachment structure 12
(receiving chamber not shown in FIG. 1, discussed further in
association with FIG. 2). Also shown in FIG. 1, is a connection
means, such as but not limited to, a screw, lock, pin, or other
similarly intended device 15 and a catch member (illustrated in
association with FIGS. 4 and 5) which is inserted through an
aperture 17 embodied within said receiving attachment structure 12.
Said connection means providing an easily accessible and
expeditious means of engaging and disengaging attachment structures
3 and 12, thereby allowing rapid removal of said structure.
[0039] FIG. 2 illustrates a posterior view of one embodiment of the
instant invention as practiced in its joined or associated state.
Turning now to FIG. 2.
[0040] In FIG. 2, the invention's receiving attachment structure 12
is shown further illustrating its receiving chambers 13 through
which the invention's projection members 9 are inserted. FIG. 2
further discloses a plurality of sternum engagement surfaces 8,
which are located at the terminus of the invention's integrated leg
portions 7. In practice, the invention's projection members 9 are
slidably received into and through said receiving chambers 13
whereupon the invention's projection members teeth like structures
10 are correspondingly engaged by a locking member (not shown)
teeth like structures, such that one way traversing of said
receiving chambers 13 is allowed. The teeth like structures 10 of
each projection member 9 and locking member further possess
complimenting engagement surfaces which allow for secure
positioning once a desired closure position has been realized.
Further discussion and disclosure of the interaction between the
instant invention's locking member and projection member teeth like
surfaces will be provided in association with FIGS. 4 and 5.
[0041] FIG. 3 illustrates a side view of one embodiment of the
instant invention as practiced in a joined or associated state.
Turning now to FIG. 3.
[0042] In FIG. 3, further distinction may be observed with respect
to the invention's leg 6, foot 7, and sternum engagement surfaces
8. A side view illustration of the engagement of the inventions
receiving chamber 13 is also provided, as is a beveled or otherwise
angled projection member positioning limitation structure 18. Said
limitation structure 18 intended to provide the means by which a
maximum projection member insertion may be
observed/facilitated.
[0043] FIG. 4 illustrates distinguishable elements of one
embodiment of the instant invention in a dis-associated state.
Turning now to FIG. 4.
[0044] In FIG. 4, the invention's locking member 20 may be
observed. The locking member is a resiliently tensioned structure,
typically, though not limitedly embodied of the same material as
the invention's receiving and sliding attachment structures 3 and
12. The catching member 20 further possess angularly disposed teeth
like structures 22 which are outwardly positioned at first and
second ends (26, 28) of the catching member. A securing aperture 24
is substantially centered between said ends (21, 28). FIG. 4
further provides a frontal view of the invention's sliding member
as well as a posterior view of the invention's attachment receiving
structure 12.
[0045] FIG. 5 illustrates a frontal view of one embodiment of the
instant invention's sliding attachment structure 12 with the
invention's locking member 20 positioned therein. Turning now to
FIG. 5.
[0046] In FIG. 5, the invention's projection members 9 are shown
for purposes of illustration and full and complete disclosure with
inwardly positioned angularly disposed teeth like structures 10
located on each of the invention's projection members. Said teeth
like structures 10 engaging in outwardly positioned teeth like
structures 22 located at first and second ends (26, 28) of the
invention's locking member 20. As the invention's locking member is
housed and accommodated within the posterior of the invention's
receiving chambers, FIG. 5 allows comprehension and appreciation of
the one way insertion orientation of the slidably adjustable
sternum closure device.
[0047] FIG. 6 illustrates a posterior view of the instant invention
intercostally positioned above and below at least two
correspondingly positioned rib pairs and substantially surrounding
a patient's sternum.
[0048] FIG. 7 illustrates a frontal view of the instant invention
intercostally positioned above and below at least two
correspondingly positioned rib pairs and substantially surrounding
a patient's sternum.
[0049] It will be apparent to those skilled in the art that various
modifications and variations can be made in the construction,
configuration, and/or operation of the present invention without
departing from the scope or spirit of the invention. For example,
in the embodiments mentioned above, variations in the materials
used to make each element of the invention may vary without
departing from the scope of the invention. Thus, it is intended
that the present invention cover the modifications and variations
of the invention provided they come within the scope of the
appended claims and their equivalents.
[0050] While this invention has been described to illustrative
embodiments, this description is not to be construed in a limiting
sense. Various modifications and combinations of the illustrative
embodiments as well as other embodiments will be apparent to those
skilled in the art upon referencing this disclosure. It is
therefore intended that this disclosure encompass any such
modifications or embodiments.
* * * * *