Lemmon Sternum Rib Approximator 30mm, 18cm

Clinical Application

Used to align and approximate sternal halves and adjacent ribs during closure after median sternotomy or thoracotomy. The instrument provides controlled, sustained approximation of bone edges to facilitate placement of cerclage wires, cables, or sutures and to verify fit before definitive fixation. It is suitable for use in adult cardiothoracic and general thoracic procedures where controlled reduction of the sternum or rib segments is required.

Design & Configuration

The compact 18 cm length offers tactile control and reach within the operative field while keeping the shaft short enough for precise manipulation during closure. Opposing approximation jaws sized to 30 mm enable reproducible contact across common sternal widths; a locking ratchet maintains compression without the need for continuous manual pressure, freeing hands to place fixation devices. The hand-held form factor and balanced geometry facilitate one-handed use and positional adjustments while minimizing interference with adjacent instruments and soft tissue.

Instrument Specifications

• Instrument type: Sternum / rib approximator (Lemmon pattern)
• Overall length: 18 cm
• Jaw capacity / tip opening: 30 mm
• Configuration: Hand-held with locking ratchet for sustained approximation
• Typical use: Sternal and rib approximation in thoracic and cardiothoracic surgery
• Construction: Reusable surgical instrument

Material & Construction

Manufactured from surgical-grade stainless steel with precision machining at the hinge and jaw interfaces to ensure secure, repeatable engagement. The instrument is finished for durability and designed for repeated sterilization cycles to support reusable instrumentation workflows.

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