Abstract

The Christoudias twin forceps approximator comprises two moveable plates that are joined together at one end and a central plate of the same length which is also joined at the one end to the two metal plates or limbs. The two flexible metal plates close in a complimentary fashion against opposite sides of the central plate either simultaneously or sequentially with the thumb controlling one plate and the index finger the other, while the central plate is held steady with the palm and remaining fingers by means of a handle which is fastened to the central plate. Thus it is possible to approximate and affix tissues with a single instrument using only one hand. An alternate embodiment of the invention includes a stapler which is mounted to the forceps to fix the tissues once they are approximated by the twin forceps. Teeth on the inside surface of the free ends of the plates or jaws engage the tissue between the jaws of the forceps so that the tissue can be manipulated, rotated, etc. The device functions by sequentially grasping the tissues to be sutured to each other with a pair of forceps, approximating said tissues, and then sequentially passing a needle with an attached thread through such tissues or stapling said tissues.