Disposable surgical drape for cardiovascular procedures

Abstract

Abstract Disposable surgical drape especially adapted for use in cardiovascular procedures is disclosed. The drape is preferably made from a generally rectangular main sheet of a flexible, repellent nonwoven fabric. The fenestration area of the drape is substantially centrally located widthwise and extends from near the patient foot end towards the patient head end at least past the area covering the patient's chest. Preferably an additional reinforced work area is provided at the patient head directed end. The fenestration is provided by means of a split extending from the patient foot end forming tails which may be positioned as desired to shape the fenestration. The drape is positioned and the tails maintained in place by attachment to the patient with medical grade adhesive strips applied to the underside of the drape. As a particular feature of the invention, raised reinforced flaps are provided adjacent the split to provide attachment sites for clamps, tubing, cords and the like. Also, pockets are provided for containing and organizing instruments. In a preferred embodiment, the pockets are formed so that they may be opened if desired to expand the reinforced area surrounding the fenestration. Also disclosed are preferred means for assembling and folding the drape as well as preferred materials including a nonwoven laminate of spunbonded and meltblown polypropylene fibers and preferred reinforcing material of a film/foam laminate. The resulting drape contributes to the flexibility and efficiency of the operating room thereby helping to reduce surgery time and benefitting the patient.

Inventors

• 👤 Jeffrey A. Martin
• 👤 Philip S. Pomeroy

Bibliographic Details