Overview:
The Sacral Support Arm is an accessory to an operating table. It is intended for use in the casting of patients during hip surgery or for any other conditions where there is a risk of subluxation of the hip and casting is indicated. The device provides support to the lower back of the patient.
Image: The Sacral Support Arm shown attached to an operating table
The Problem:
During the plaster casting of hips and lower abdomen of children particularly suffering from spina bifida and developmental hip dysplasia NHS staff often experience difficulties in maintaining safe access using a conventional operating theatre table. Ease of access is compounded if portable X-ray equipment has to be used to ensure the bones have been set correctly.
The Solution:
The original devices were built for use in the context of paediatric surgery only and to fit into a particular model of operating table. Since then the same basic design has been applied to suit other models of operating table and could easily be adapted to suit adults.
A novel feature of the Sacral Support Arm developed by Sheffield Teaching Hospitals is that it provides patient support without compromising access to the hips. It provides maximum access for a plaster cast to be constructed around the hips by the surgeon. It allows access for radiographs to be taken using portable radiographic equipment so that the surgeon can ensure that the hips are plastered in the desired position.
The Benefits:
The benefits of using the Sacral Support Arm for the healthcare provider and patients arise from the way the device facilitates an otherwise awkward, somewhat messy procedure: A reduction in duration of the procedure will tend to reduce the cost of the surgery; achievement of a plaster cast in the optimum position will enhance patient comfort and recovery and tend to mitigate against complications.
The Sacral Support Arm has been successfully used at both Sheffield Teaching Hospital and elsewhere and on several different suppliers operating tables and has been well received by nurses and doctors.
The device has been CE Marked and a full set of design drawings and design specifications are available.
Pricing and Availability:
Please contact Medipex on the link below.
