ADJUSTABLE MULTI-PURPOSE CORONARY STABILIZING RETRACTOR

摘要

This invention is an apparatus (10) for stabilizing a predetermined area on a heart (2) of a patient to enable a surgical procedure to be performed. The apparatus includes a bifurcated member (20) having two elongated prongs (22) which can be adjustable as to width, and an elongated handle segment (40) attached to the bifurcated member. The handle segment can be either fixed or pivotally attached to the bifurcated member. The apparatus may further include an attachment (14) or inlay to prevent lateral movement thereof when being used in the surgical procedure. The apparatus may also include a cleat (70) for securing a portion of the surgical thread (6) used during the procedure. At least a portion of the prongs (or feet) of the bifurcated member may be further independently rotatable for self-alignment with the surface of the predetermined area of the heart.