Patent ID: 6267751
Filing Date: 2001-07-31
Classification: A61B,A61M

Abstract:
A method for stabilizing a cardiac tissue during surgery, comprising the steps of:providing a suction support comprising an elongate tubular member having a lumen, and an arcuate member having at least one suction port and joined to a distal end of the tubular member;introducing the suction support into a patient's thoracic cavity through an incision;positioning the suction support about a cardiac tissue;applying a vacuum to the lumen of the elongate tubular member, wherein the cardiac tissue is releasably engaged by the suction port;making an incision on the cardiac tissue using a blade deployed through a lumen of the elongate tubular member; andinserting a cannula through the incision, wherein the cardiac tissue is stabilized by the suction support during insertion of the cannula without traumatizing the cardiac tissue.