Clinical Application
This instrument is used to bring and hold adjacent rib segments into anatomical alignment during closure of thoracotomy incisions and other procedures requiring chest wall stabilization. By securing rib edges with controlled, sustained force, the approximator facilitates placement of sutures, wires, plates or other fixation devices and supports atraumatic handling of bone during repair.
Design & Configuration
The compact 16 cm length provides close manual control within the limited working space of the thoracic cavity and at incision sites near the intercostal spaces. Hinged distal jaws are contoured to engage rib surfaces and the integrated locking mechanism maintains approximation without continuous manual force, improving ergonomics for the surgeon and reducing motion during fixation. The hand-held profile permits fine positional adjustments and stable retention while wires or sutures are placed.
Instrument Specifications
- Pattern: Bailey Gibbon rib approximator
- Overall length: 16 cm
- Configuration: Hinged distal jaws with locking mechanism
- Intended use: Reapproximation of ribs during thoracotomy closure and chest wall stabilization
- Construction: Surgical-grade stainless steel, reusable
Material & Construction
Constructed from surgical-grade stainless steel for durability and resistance to repeated sterilization cycles. Precision machining and joint alignment provide reliable jaw closure and consistent approximation force. The design supports standard cleaning and sterilization protocols for reusable thoracic instruments.
Quality & Compliance
Manufactured by FDA-registered OEM facilities and produced under strict quality control standards.
Brand Comparison
Comparable in form and function to equivalent instruments offered by major US medical suppliers.
Availability & Returns
- In-stock lead time: ships within ~1 week
- Out-of-stock lead time: 2–4 weeks
- Returns: 30-day return policy