Thimble type knot pusher: bioprosthesis stents no longer interfere with tying

Interact Cardiovasc Thorac Surg. 2010 Aug;11(2):131-2. doi: 10.1510/icvts.2010.238188. Epub 2010 May 26.

Abstract

When a stented bioprosthetic valve is used for aortic valve replacement, the valve stents protruding to the aortic side can interfere with suture tying. To resolve this problem, we developed a novel knot pusher for use on the index finger. This device has a short push rod appropriate for replacing bioprosthetic aortic valve. Surgeons can complete the tying procedure without the help of an assistant.

MeSH terms

  • Aortic Valve / surgery*
  • Bioprosthesis*
  • Equipment Design
  • Heart Valve Prosthesis Implantation / instrumentation*
  • Heart Valve Prosthesis*
  • Humans
  • Prosthesis Design
  • Surgical Instruments*
  • Suture Techniques / instrumentation*