The suture applicator for replacing a bone flap--technical note.

Abstract

A new instrument was developed for passing and holding sutures during the replacement of a bone flap. The new device is a simple straight aluminum shaft, 6 cm in length and 0.7 mm in diameter with a groove on both ends for holding the suture. The shaft can be easily bent with the fingers to attain the desired curve and more suitable manipulation. Passing the shaft through the straight hole in the cranium or the cranial flap was very easy and convenient. No dural damage occurred during 80 procedures using this shaft. No needle holder or forceps for temporary clipping sutures were necessary, which reduced the operative time and mental and physical burden on the operator and the nurses. The mean time per hole with our instrument (45.8 +/- 9.2 sec) was significantly shorter compared to conventional methods with a circular needle, needle holder, and many forceps for temporary clamping of sutures (65.6 +/- 13.2 sec).