Reduces Risk of Ventral Hernia

About

BACKGROUND The wound closure process for midline ab- dominal laparotomies, or vertical incisions through the linea alba of the abdominal wall, often results in painful ventral hernias if tensile forces applied during the process are too sig- nificant. Up to 20% of all normal midline ab- dominal laparotomy cases result in the devel- opment of a ventral hernia, thus increasing medical expenses and patient discomfort. Currently, there is no definitive quantitative standard for the application of tensile forces along the deep fascia of the abdominal wall. Surgeons are guessing at their ability to safely close the incision. By measuring tensile forces in the deep fascia of the abdominal wall during wound closure, the Tissue Closure Device will allow sur- geons to safely determine the optimal method for patient care.   SUMMARY A pair of hemostats with articulating arms and beds and rakes for attachment, are equipped with two strain gauges.  Comprises a pivot at the hemostat bed, a hinge after the pivot, micro-hooks, that are specifically designed for safe and secure attachment and simple maneuverability by the surgeon.  The hemostats conveniently allow two positions: straightened position, when the hinge cannot articulate because a locking collar is in place; and bent position, when the hinge can function and the handles can be bent back  Initial animal testing successfully demonstrated proper and safe attachment of the micro-hooks to the deep fascia and the ability of the strain gauges to provide force readings in real time.   ADVANTAGES Unlike general measurement devices, allows theuse of a tensile force device in an operating room, while maintaining sterility and safety of the open wound. Overcomes the hurdle of safe attachment to the deep fascia because of the minimal thickness of the fascia and proximity to the underlying viscera layer. Data collection of tensile forces is quick and simple. Allows atraumatic attachment and detachment from the deep fascia while causing no additional harm to the patient or the surgeon. Potential utility in human and veterinary applica- tions. The collected data will allow mechanical characteri- zations of tissues; information that will be invalua- ble in developing additional safety mechanisms during  operative  procedures.