1. A Wire-Cutting Clamp Designed to Reduce Complications During Sternotomy Closure 
Daniel H. Drake, MD 
The Annals of Thoracic Surgery 
Volume 82, Issue 4, Pages (October 2006)
DOI: /j.athoracsur
Copyright © 2006 The Society of Thoracic Surgeons Terms and Conditions

2. Fig 1
The sternal wire-cutting clamp is a balanced, 16-cm long, reusable surgical stainless steel single-hinged locking clamp with carbide inserts that simultaneously grasp and cut wire typically used for sternal closure. All exposed edges have been milled to minimize the risk of glove disruption. Finger guides and labeling designate appropriate hand and wire positioning.
The Annals of Thoracic Surgery  , DOI: ( /j.athoracsur )
Copyright © 2006 The Society of Thoracic Surgeons Terms and Conditions

3. Fig 2
The sternal wire is firmly grasped by the clamp and the cut end of the wire does not protrude. The label indicates the side of the clamp that cuts the wire.
The Annals of Thoracic Surgery  , DOI: ( /j.athoracsur )
Copyright © 2006 The Society of Thoracic Surgeons Terms and Conditions

4. Fig 3
The clamps are manipulated to approximate the sternum and initiate twisting of the wire.
The Annals of Thoracic Surgery  , DOI: ( /j.athoracsur )
Copyright © 2006 The Society of Thoracic Surgeons Terms and Conditions

5. Fig 4
The locking mechanism allows release and disposal of the wire remnants from a location on the clamp remote from the wire itself. This further reduces the risk of injury for operating room personnel.
The Annals of Thoracic Surgery  , DOI: ( /j.athoracsur )
Copyright © 2006 The Society of Thoracic Surgeons Terms and Conditions