Methods for attaching instruments to the operating table

Abstract

To provide an accessory mount clamp for fixing instruments for use in a surgical drainage bag system.SOLUTION: A mount configured to attach to a mount lug comprises: accessory mount clamp comprising a mount arm extending therefrom; and a fastener to connect the accessory mount clamp to the mount lug.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 12

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present disclosure generally relates to a drainage system for use in medical procedures, particularly those medical procedures in which a lithotomy stirrup is employed.

Background Art

[0002] During surgical procedures, more specifically urological or gynecological surgical procedures, a clinician may use a fluid such as sterile saline for perfusion of the surgical site. To ensure patient safety, it is necessary to collect such fluids and record the amount of fluid used during the procedure. If such fluids pool or collect on the floor, it can pose a danger to the clinician and members of the surgical team. In many cases, such procedures are performed with the patient in a supine position, with the patient's legs elevated and away from the surgical site near the perineum. To ensure access to the surgical site, the patient's legs may be placed in a lithotomy stirrup to optimize access to the surgical site. Such a stirrup is attached to the operating table by a clamp attached to the distal end of the operating table side rail.

[0003] Drainage bags, more specifically urinary drainage bags for collecting fluid during surgical procedures, are known. There exists a reusable flexible band system that connects to a reusable clamp mounted on the distal end of the operating table's side rail. The reusable flexible band allows for the attachment of a disposable drainage bag for collecting fluid during the procedure. There are also systems consisting of a disposable drainage bag attached to a flexible band, with the flexible band connected to the operating table by a reusable rail-mount clamp. These reusable clamps are mounted on the distal end of the operating table's side rail. In this art, there are also disposable drainage bag systems, which consist of a disposable drainage bag attached to a flexible band, with a disposable clamp attached to the flexible band that connects to the distal end of the operating table's side rail. These disposable clamps fit only one size of operating table rail. The advantage of the completely disposable drainage bag systems described above is that the clamps do not need to be cleaned and sterilized after each procedure and then stored for final reuse.

[0004] However, clamps of such systems, and all conventional clamps used in the present art as described in this application, occupy a portion of the distal end of the operating table rail. According to the current art, when disposable or reusable clamps of these systems are used with lithotomy stirrups, the clamps that attach the stirrups must be moved proximal toward the patient's head, since the disposable clamps are attached to the distal end of the operating table rail. By not attaching the lithotomy stirrups to the distal end of the operating table rail, it would be possible to prevent the locking joint proximal to the stirrups from being positioned at the patient's hip joint, as recommended by all stirrup manufacturers.

[0005] If the locking joint proximal to the stirrup is not attached to the patient's hip joint, increased stress on the patient's lumbar spine may occur. This could lead to injury or post-procedure pain.

[0006] Instruments such as scopes, retractors, and forceps are often used multiple times during procedures that require the patient to be positioned in the lithotomy position using stirrups. These instruments can be secured to the side rails of the operating table by mounting clamps. The distal end of the operating table side rail is occupied by the clamps that secure the stirrups to the operating table, which can make it difficult for the clinician to access other instruments when performing perineal surgery. [Overview of the project] [Means for solving the problem]

[0007] This disclosure generally pertains to disposable (i.e., disposable after each use) surgical drainage bag systems. In some embodiments, such a surgical drainage bag system may include disposable clamps, disposable flexible bands to which disposable drainage bag drapes are attached, all of which are disposable after use. This system allows the user to attach the system to the operating table and then dispose of the system after each use.

[0008] As described in detail below, the surgical drainage bag system according to this instruction allows for the positioning of the stirrup attachment clamp on the distal end of the operating table side rail, thereby enabling safe patient positioning. When stirrups are not used, the surgical drainage bag system according to this instruction allows for the attachment of a disposable clamp on the distal end of the operating table rail to secure the disposable drainage bag system.

[0009] Operating table side rails to which accessories, including drainage bag systems, are attached come in a variety of sizes, including different widths and heights, but are not limited to those of US, EU, and UK operating table side rails. With current technology, both reusable and disposable clamps for conventional drainage bag systems fit only one size of operating table rail. This means that facilities with various tables having multiple rail sizes must possess numerous conventional types of drainage bag systems, each with clamps of a different size. The present invention makes it possible to engage a single disposable clamp with various rail sizes, meaning that hospitals with various tables having different rail sizes only need to procure one type of drainage bag system.

[0010] In many urological and gynecological procedures requiring fluid collection systems, other accessories, instruments, and surgical aids can be attached to the side rails present on most operating tables and procedure tables via operating table rail clamps. Lithotomy stirrups are used to lift and hold the legs away from the surgical site, but this is just one example of commonly used surgical instrument accessories and / or surgical aids. Attaching lithotomy stirrups to the operating table side rails via operating table rail clamps makes it easier for the clinician to access the surgical site. These lithotomy stirrups often use gas-filled cylinders, which provide an upward force that reduces the stress or load on the clinician when lifting and positioning the patient's legs. The gas cylinders are typically mounted on the distal mounting point on the stirrup support rod and on the proximal mounting lug on the mounting plate at approximately the same level on the operating table rail.

[0011] In some embodiments, the surgical drainage bag system according to this teaching may include a flexible band and a disposable drainage bag drape, along with a disposable clamp (which may be attached to the side rail of the operating table), all of which can be discarded after each use, and may further include an accessory mounting mechanism that allows the disposable drainage bag, flexible band, and clamp to be secured to an instrument or accessory configured to be mounted on an operating table or similar treatment table.

[0012] In many embodiments, disposable clamps allow for the acceptance of operating table rails of various sizes, eliminating the need to store multiple drainage bag systems with clamps of different sizes to accommodate such different rail sizes. Accessory mounting mechanisms may be attached to specific surgical accessories or devices used during medical procedures to secure and use the disposable drainage bag system. Such accessory mounts for disposable drainage bag systems eliminate the need for rails to mount the drainage bag system when specific surgical accessories are used, thus creating more space at the distal end of the operating table rail. This additional space at the distal end of the operating table rail allows the locking joint proximal to the lithotomy stirrup to be properly positioned at the patient's hip joint, thereby reducing the risk of stress on the patient's hip joint, which could lead to injury during the procedure and / or lumbar pain in the patient after the procedure.

[0013] In embodiments, the disposable drainage bag system may include a disposable drainage bag, a flexible band that is coupled to and supports the disposable drainage bag, and a disposable clamp configured to receive an operating table side rail or an accessory mounting arm which may be of similar size to the operating table side rail.

[0014] The disposable clamp may include a channel for receiving an operating table rail or accessory mounting arm, and on the other side of the disposable clamp, a band receiving slot sized to receive a flexible band. In some embodiments, the band receiving slot may have recesses and / or holes at predetermined positions within the band receiving slot, which may be sized to receive stoppers, buttons, bumps, and projections that may be formed on the flexible band. In some embodiments, an upper ledge and a lower ledge may be formed in the disposable clamp body. Each of these ledges may have stabilizer extensions formed thereon, which are substantially rigid and substantially parallel to the lower and upper surfaces of the lower and upper ledges. In this specification, the term “substantially rigid” is defined as deflecting by less than 0.10 inches (0.254 cm), and “substantially parallel” means not deviating by more than 10 degrees from the reference plane. In some embodiments, the disposable clamp may be made of a plastic such as polyethylene, polyurethane, polycarbonate, polyethylene terephthalate, or acrylonitrile-butadiene-styrene (ABS).

[0015] In some embodiments, disposable clamps are disclosed for connecting flexible bands and drainage bags to operating table side rails or accessory mounting arms. The disposable clamp may include a rail receiving channel on one side to receive the operating table side rail or accessory mounting arm. In some embodiments, the rail receiving channel may be formed by an upper ledge and a lower ledge of the disposable clamp, while each ledge may have a lip formed at the distal edge of the upper and lower ledges of the disposable clamp. In some embodiments, the clamp may have a body including a proximal side. In some embodiments, the proximal side of the clamp may have a notch or cutout therein. The rail receiving channel may be shaped and sized to fit onto the operating table rail or accessory mounting arm.

[0016] In some embodiments, the upper ledge may have a chase cut into its underside to accommodate accessory rails of different sizes, particularly rails that may have a narrower width or greater height than the rail receiving channel of the disposable clamp. In other embodiments, the upper ledge chase can fit onto at least one fin formed on the accessory mounting arm to stabilize the disposable clamp when mounted in this manner. In some embodiments, the lower ledge may be formed to include a screw hole, which can accommodate a threaded knob that can enter into and engage through it. In some embodiments, the screw hole is offset from the center of the clamp body and aligned with the centerline of a chase formed on the underside of the upper ledge of the disposable clamp. In some embodiments, a threaded screw can be engaged through the screw hole in the lower platform, and the operating table rail can be inserted into the upper ledge chase, thus engaging the operating table rail with the upper ledge chase. In some embodiments, the underside of the lip of the upper ledge is lower than a notch cut into the upper ledge on the proximal clamp surface that forms one side of the rail receiving channel. In other embodiments, a threaded screw can be engaged through a threaded hole in the lower platform, engaging the clamp with an accessory mounting arm. In other embodiments, the upper ledge may be formed to include a threaded hole that can receive a threaded knob that can enter into and engage through it. In some embodiments, the lower ledge may include a distal lip and may also include an extension stabilizer protruding from the lower ledge opposite the side of the band receiving slot of the disposable clamp. In one embodiment, the upper ledge of the clamp may include a lip on its distal side and may have an engaging surface which is lower than a notch in the proximal clamp wall and may have a stabilizer extension protruding from the ledge opposite the band receiving slot of the disposable clamp.In such embodiments, a lip formed on the upper ledge may project distally and downward away from the upper surface of the ledge to assist in engaging with the operating table rail or accessory mounting arm. In some embodiments, a lip formed on the lower ledge may project distally and upward away from the lower surface of the lower ledge to assist in engaging with the operating table rail or accessory mounting arm. In some embodiments, the proximal side of the clamp body with a notch, the upper and lower ledges, the upper and lower edge lips, and the upper and lower stabilizer extensions of the ledge may form a monolithic body made of, for example, plastic.

[0017] The proximal side of the clamp body with a notch, the underside of the upper ledge, the lip of the upper ledge including the engagement surface, and the lower ledge with the lip, as well as the upper and lower stabilizer extensions of the ledge, constitute a rail receiving channel into which an operating table rail or accessory mounting arm can be engaged. In some embodiments, the underside of the upper ledge may have a chase cut into it to accommodate rails narrower and / or taller than the width of the rail receiving channel. In other embodiments, the components of the operating table rail receiving channel may include separate plastic or metal pieces, or combinations of metal and plastic parts, which can be assembled, for example, by press-fitting, welding, or bonding. In yet another embodiment, the disposable clamp body, ledge, lip, and extension stabilizers may be formed of metal.

[0018] The disposable clamp may engage with the operating table rail or accessory mounting arm using a clamp rail receiving channel. In some embodiments, the upper portion of the operating table rail may be narrower and / or higher than the rail receiving channel and fit into an upper ledge chase. In other embodiments, the upper chase may fit into fins formed on the upper surface of the accessory mounting arm. The threaded knob may then be inserted into a threaded hole in the lower ledge and engaged so that the distal portion of the threaded knob engages sequentially with the operating table rail or accessory mounting arm, thus securing the disposable clamp in place. In other embodiments, the threaded knob may enter a threaded hole, engage through it, and press against a rail narrower and / or higher than the rail engagement channel, engaging them with the upper ledge chase, and thus securing this rail to the disposable clamp.

[0019] In some embodiments, a flexible band receiving slot may be formed on the disposable clamp side opposite the rail receiving channel. The flexible band receiving slot may have at least one recess in one embodiment. The at least one recess may take on a variety of shapes, including, but not limited to, linear, square, cubic, round, oval, hexagonal, circular, or elliptical, or may be formed in other shapes. In other embodiments, the clamp rail channel may have at least one through hole. The at least one through hole may take on a variety of shapes, including, but not limited to, linear, square, cubic, round / circular, elliptical, oval, or hexagonal. In other embodiments, the band receiving slot may have at least two recesses therein, each of which may be the same or different shape or size, including, but not limited to, the following shapes: linear, square, cubic, round / circular, elliptical, oval, or hexagonal. In other embodiments, the disposable clamp band receiving slot may have at least two through holes. At least two through-holes can take on a variety of shapes, including but not limited to: straight, square, cubic, round / circular, elliptical, oblong, or hexagonal.

[0020] In some embodiments, a band receiving slot may be formed on the clamp side opposite the rail receiving channel. In one embodiment, the band receiving slot may have at least one recess. The at least one recess may be formed to receive a serrated or thorny ridge or projection, or other polygonal shape. In other embodiments, the clamp rail channel may have at least one through hole or recess. The at least one through hole or recess may be formed to receive a ridge which is a serrated or thorny projection, or other polygonal shape. In other embodiments, the clamp band slot may have at least two recesses or through holes therein, and each of the at least two through holes or at least two recesses may be the same or different shapes or sizes in any combination capable of receiving a thorny or serrated ridge or other polygonal shape. In other embodiments, the at least one through hole or recess may be formed to receive a variety of shapes, including, but not limited to, thorny or serrated projections.

[0021] In some embodiments, a band receiving slot may be formed on the clamp side opposite the rail receiving channel. In some embodiments, the band receiving slot may have at least one recess and at least one through hole. The at least one recess and at least one through hole may be formed to receive a ridge which is a serrated or thorny projection or a combination of other shapes and any combination of shapes. The clamp band slot may have at least one recess and at least one through hole therein, and each of the at least one through hole or at least one recess may be the same or different shapes or sizes in any combination which can receive a thorny or serrated ridge or shape in any combination.

[0022] In some embodiments, a surgical drainage bag system may include a disposable drainage drape bag, a flexible band, a disposable clamp, and an accessory mounting mechanism. In some embodiments, this accessory mounting mechanism may be fixed to an accessory or other device used in a surgical procedure, particularly a lithotomy stirrup, configured to be attached to a treatment table or operating table. In one embodiment, the accessory mounting mechanism can be discarded after use. In other embodiments, the accessory mounting mechanism may be semi-permanently attached to an accessory or other device configured to be attached to a treatment table or operating table, particularly a lithotomy stirrup. In one embodiment, this accessory mounting mechanism may be formed or molded from a plastic component. In other embodiments, it may be formed or fabricated from metal. In yet another embodiment, it may be fabricated or formed from a combination of a plastic component and a metal component. In some embodiments, it is intended that the accessory mounting mechanism may be formed as a monolithic component of either plastic or metal. In other embodiments, it may be made from two or more separate pieces of plastic or metal, which may be press-fitted using indentations and paired raised or protruding parts, or held together by other mechanical means such as a mounting rod. In some embodiments, the accessory mounting mechanism may include a monolithic accessory mounting clamp made of plastic or metal and having at least two holes formed in the structure, at least one of which is threaded; a separate spacer made of plastic or metal and having a through hole; and a mounting rod threaded at one end and having a flat head at the opposite end.

[0023] The accessory mounting mechanism may, in some embodiments, include a horseshoe-shaped or "U"-shaped accessory mounting clamp having holes formed in two of its arms, a spacer with a through hole, and a mounting rod having a threaded end and a flat head on the opposite end. In some embodiments, the spacer is "T"-shaped, while in other embodiments, the spacer is formed as a straight block. In yet another embodiment, it may be round or semicircular in shape. The accessory mounting clamp is shaped and sized such that, when the spacer is attached to the mounting accessory clamp, it fits snugly and tightly to the outer circumference of the stirrup gas cylinder mounting lug of the crushed stone stirrup. Proximal mounting lugs for gas cylinders come in different sizes from various stirrup manufacturers. In some embodiments, there are accessory mounting clamps and spacers of different sizes that fit snugly and tightly to the outer circumference of gas cylinder gas mounting lugs of various sizes from each stirrup manufacturer.

[0024] In some embodiments, the accessory mount clamp may include an upper arm, a lower arm, and a semicircular portion. The upper arm, lower arm, and semicircular portion of the accessory mount clamp are designed to fit tightly and snugly onto the outer surface of the stirrup gas cylinder mount lug. In some embodiments, the upper arm, lower arm, and semicircular portion of the accessory mount clamp are formed or molded from plastic as a monolithic part, or formed or fabricated from metal. In yet another embodiment, the parts are plastic or metal and are press-fitted or bonded together using indentations that have slots for receiving thorny or serrated projections or protrusions. In one embodiment, the upper arm is formed to have a threaded hole that can receive a threaded rod, while the lower arm is formed to have a hole facing the corresponding hole in the upper arm. In another embodiment, the lower arm has a threaded hole, and the upper arm has a non-threaded hole that directly faces the hole in the upper arm. In some embodiments, a mounting arm is formed, centered on the distal edge of the semicircular portion, projecting outward substantially perpendicularly from this portion. The term substantially perpendicular is defined as 90 degrees plus or minus 5 degrees. The mounting arm is the size of the operating table rail. In some embodiments, a fin sized to fit into the upper ledge chase of a disposable clamp is formed on the upper surface of the accessory mounting arm. A spacer, formed or molded from plastic or metal, is in some embodiments fabricated or formed from plastic or metal, with a length approximately equal to twice the inner diameter of the semicircular portion of the accessory mounting clamp. In some embodiments, the spacer has a through hole extending from its top to its bottom. The spacer fits into a portion of the surface of the stirrup gas spring mounting lug and into a through hole formed in the spacer, which aligns with holes formed in the upper and lower arms of the accessory mounting clamp.In one embodiment, a mounting rod (machined or formed from metal, plastic, or a suitable material) having a threaded end on one end and a flat head on the opposite end is passed through the lower arm of the accessory mounting clamp and through a hole in the spacer. In one embodiment, the threaded end of the rod is designed to fit and engage with a threaded hole in the upper arm of the accessory mounting clamp.

[0025] In some embodiments, a spacer rod (machined or made of metal) having a threaded end on one side and a flat head on the opposite end is passed through a hole in the upper arm of the accessory mount clamp and into a through hole in the spacer. The threaded end of the rod enters into a threaded hole in the lower arm of the accessory mount clamp and engages with it, thereby securing the accessory mount clamp to the surface of the stirrup gas cylinder mount lug. In some embodiments, the spacer is rectangular in shape. In other embodiments, it is "T" shaped with a flange. In some embodiments, the "T" flange has sides with semicircular notches, while in other embodiments, the "T" flange has straight notches. In other embodiments, the spacer may have flanges of various shapes, including square, circular, or hexagonal, but may be circular, elliptical, or semicircular. The spacer is secured to the upper and lower arms of the accessory mount clamp by the threaded rod and also fits snugly onto the surface of the stirrup gas cylinder mount lug.

[0026] In one embodiment, a mount arm having fins on an upper surface protruding from a distal side of a semi-circular portion of an accessory mount clamp is contemplated to be formed or molded as part of a monolithic plastic or metal structure of the accessory mount clamp. In other embodiments, the mount arm and the fins may be formed from separate pieces of plastic or metal and connected to the accessory mount clamp by means of a press-fit connection or adhesion / welding or any combination thereof. In some embodiments, the mount arm can be sized to match the size of an operating table rail.

[0027] In some embodiments, the accessory mount clamp may be attached to a star wrap gas cylinder mount lug by fitting the upper arm, lower arm, and semi-circular portion of the accessory mount clamp around the surface (or surfaces) of the star wrap gas cylinder mount lug. By passing a mounting rod through the upper arm of the accessory mount clamp and through a through-hole of a spacer, it can be engaged with a threaded hole in the lower arm of the accessory mount clamp, thus fixing the spacer to the accessory mount clamp and then fixing the accessory mount clamp to the star wrap gas cylinder mount lug. The side surface of a disposable clamp having a rail receiving channel can slide on a mount arm having fins of the accessory mount clamp, and an upper ledge chassis fits around the mount arm fins. The upper and lower stabilizer extension arms of the disposable rail clamp and the fitting of the mount arm fins to the upper ledge chassis facilitate stabilizing the disposable clamp against any torsional force. In some embodiments, a threaded knob of the disposable clamp can be engaged with a threaded hole in the lower ledge of the disposable clamp to fix it to the mount arm of the accessory mount clamp. Next, a flexible band with an attached drainage bag drape can be fixed to the disposable clamp.

[0028] The accessory mounting mechanism may, in some embodiments, include a horseshoe-shaped or "U"-shaped accessory mounting clamp having an upper arm, a lower arm, and a curved arm with holes formed in the upper and lower arms; a spacer with a through hole; and a mounting rod having a threaded end and a flat head on the opposite end. In some embodiments, the spacer is "T"-shaped, while in other embodiments, the spacer is formed as a block. In yet another embodiment, it may be round or semicircular in shape. In some embodiments, the spacer may have a straight or circular flange, and the flange may have a semicircular or straight notch. The accessory mounting clamp is sized to fit snugly and closely around the surface (or multiple thereof) of a protrusion or extension of a surgical accessory or surgical instrument, in some embodiments such extensions have a diameter of approximately 0.25 to 4 inches (approximately 0.635 to 10.16 cm) (for circular protrusions) or a maximum cross-sectional width (for linear protrusions) of approximately 0.25 to 4 inches (approximately 0.635 to 10.16 cm), with the protrusion extending 1 / 2 inch to 8 inches (approximately 1.27 to 20.32 cm) from the surface of the instrument or accessory. In some embodiments, when the spacer is attached to the mounting accessory clamp, it fits snugly around the proximal surface of a surgical accessory or instrument projection if the projection has a diameter between 0.25 and 4 inches (0.635 and 10.16 cm) or a cross-sectional width of approximately 0.25 to approximately 4 inches (approximately 0.635 to approximately 10.16 cm) and extends outward for a length of up to 8 inches (20.32 cm) from the surface of the accessory or instrument.

[0029] In other embodiments, there may be a mount lug or protrusion formed on the operating table accessory rail clamp used to attach the accessory to the operating table. The rail clamp mount lug can be sized such that the accessory mount clamp can fit snugly and closely against the outer periphery of this lug. In some embodiments, the accessory mount clamp can be attached to the rail clamp mount lug of the operating table rail accessory clamp by fitting the upper arm, lower arm, and semi-circular portion of the accessory mount clamp around the surface (or surfaces) of the stirrup gas cylinder mount lug. By passing the attachment rod through the upper arm of the accessory mount clamp and through the through-hole of the spacer, it can be engaged with the threaded hole of the lower arm of the accessory mount clamp, thus fixing the spacer to the accessory mount clamp and then fixing the accessory mount clamp to the operating table rail clamp mount lug. The side surface of the disposable clamp with a rail receiving channel can slide on the mounting arm with fins of the accessory mount clamp, and the upper ledge case fits around the fin of the mounting arm. The upper and lower stabilizer extension arms of the disposable rail clamp and the fitting of the fin of the mounting arm to the upper ledge case make the disposable clamp resistant to any torsional force and easier to stabilize. In some embodiments, the threaded knob of the disposable clamp can be engaged with the threaded hole of the lower ledge of the disposable clamp and fixed to the mounting arm of the accessory mount clamp. Next, a flexible band with an attached drainage bag drape can be fixed to the disposable clamp.

[0030] In some embodiments, the operating table rail clamp may have a mounting arm with a fin formed at its distal end. The side of the disposable clamp with a rail receiving channel can slide on the finned mounting arm of the accessory mounting arm, and the upper ledge chase fits around the mounting arm fin. The upper and lower stabilizer extension arms of the disposable rail clamp and the fitting of the mounting arm fin to the upper ledge chase make it easier to stabilize the disposable clamp against any torsional forces. In some embodiments, a threaded knob of the disposable clamp can engage with a threaded hole in the lower ledge of the disposable clamp and secure it to the mounting arm of the accessory mounting clamp. A flexible band with an attached drainage bag drape can then be secured to the disposable clamp.

[0031] In some embodiments, the operating table accessory rail clamp may have a mounting arm with fins formed within a distally projecting mounting arm. In other embodiments, the finned mounting arm may be attached to the operating table accessory rail clamp via a mechanical attachment. The side of the disposable clamp with rail receiving channels can slide on the finned mounting arm of the accessory mounting arm, and the upper ledge chase fits around the mounting arm fins. The upper and lower stabilizer extension arms of the disposable rail clamp and the fitting of the mounting arm fins to the upper ledge chase make it easier to stabilize the disposable clamp against any torsional forces. In some embodiments, a threaded knob of the disposable clamp can engage with a threaded hole in the lower ledge of the disposable clamp, allowing it to be secured to the mounting arm of the accessory mounting clamp. A flexible band with an attached drainage bag drape can then be secured to the disposable clamp.

[0032] The flexible band may be formed from a commonly available plastic or other suitable material. In one embodiment, the flexible band may have at least one projection formed at each of its ends. The at least one projection may have at least one protrusion or ridge, which can be formed in different shapes. In some embodiments, the at least one ridge or projection on the projection may be, but not limited to, the following shapes: linear, square, cubic, round, elliptical, oblong, hexagonal, or any combination of circles, and may be sized to fit into at least one recess of the flexible band receiving slot. In other embodiments, the shape of the at least one ridge or projection on the at least one projection may be serrated or thorny, and may be any combination, but may be sized to fit into at least one recess in the flexible band receiving slot. In some embodiments, the flexible band may have at least one notch cut into its end, forming at least one projection with at least one ridge on the projection of the flexible band.

[0033] The flexible band may be formed from a commonly available plastic or other suitable material. In some embodiments, the flexible band may have at least two projections formed at each of its ends. The at least two projections may each have at least one protrusion or ridge, which can be formed in a different shape. In some embodiments, the at least one ridge or projection formed on the at least two projections may be, but are not limited to, linear, square, cubic, round, elliptical, oblong, hexagonal, or any combination of circles, and may be sized to fit into at least two recesses in the flexible band receiving slot. In other embodiments, the shape of the at least one ridge or projection on the at least two projections may be serrated or thorny, and may be any combination, but may be sized to fit into at least two recesses in the flexible band receiving slot. In some embodiments, the flexible band may have at least one notch cut into its end, forming at least two projections, each having at least one ridge on at least two projections of the flexible band.

[0034] In some embodiments, the distance between at least one ridge on different projections of the flexible band is slightly greater than the height of the disposable band receiving slot formed on the side of the disposable clamp. The term “slightly greater” is defined herein as being about 0.1 to about 0.15 inches (about 0.254 to about 0.381 cm) greater. When the flexible band is fitted into the disposable band receiving slot, at least two projections are pressed down by the force applied to at least two projections as they engage with the band receiving slot. As the end of the flexible band slides within the receiving band slot, at least two ridges engage with at least two recesses or through-holes within the flexible band receiving slot, thereby connecting the flexible band to the disposable clamp.

[0035] In one embodiment, the flexible band may be formed from a commonly available plastic or other suitable material. At least one notch may be cut into the end of the flexible band to form at least two protrusions. In one embodiment, each of the at least two protrusions may have at least one projection or ridge formed thereon. The at least one projection or ridge of each of the at least two protrusions may be of different shapes, forming at least two protrusions at each end of the flexible band. In another embodiment, the shape of the at least one ridge or projection on each of the at least two protrusions may be serrated or thorny or any suitable shape, but may be sized to fit into at least two through holes or recesses in the clamp band slot. In another embodiment, two notches may be cut into the end of the disposable band to form upper, middle, and lower protrusions, with at least two protrusions each having at least one ridge. In some embodiments, at least one of the intermediate and apical projections is sized to engage with at least two recesses or at least two through-holes in a band receiving slot formed on the side of the disposable clamp body.

[0036] The maximum distance between at least one ridge on the upper projection and at least one ridge on the lower projection is slightly greater than the height of the band receiving slot. Slightly greater is defined as being about 0.01 to about 0.15 inches (about 0.0254 to about 0.381 cm) greater. When the flexible band is engaged with the disposable band receiving slot, at least two projections are pushed down as they engage with the band receiving slot. As the end of the flexible band slides into the band receiving slot, at least one ridge engages with at least two recesses or at least two through holes in the flexible band receiving slot, thereby connecting the flexible band to the disposable clamp.

[0037] In some embodiments, disposable clamps can be molded or formed as monolithic components from plastic, metal, or both. In other embodiments, clamps can be assembled from separate pieces, which are press-fitted together using barbed or serrated grooves and protrusions. Such separate pieces may also be bonded or welded to one another.

[0038] Drainage bag drapes can be made from a flexible waterproof polymer and, in some embodiments, may be circular or semicircular in shape. In some embodiments, the drainage bag drape is transparent and its upper portion is coupled to a flexible band that can be attached to a disposable clamp. The disposable clamp can be attached to an operating table rail or to the mounting arm of an accessory mounting clamp. The drainage bag drape is "V" shaped, with the top being larger than the bottom, which ends in a hole to which a threaded tube is attached. In some embodiments, the threaded tube can be attached to the hole in the bottom of the drape by mechanical means or by adhesive means. The threaded tube can be attached to another threaded tube connected to a fluid collection system that stores fluid. In some embodiments, the drape has a filter between the top and bottom of the drape. The filter can be in the form of a mesh, which can be made, for example, from a cross-woven yarn of a flexible polymer material.

[0039] In a related embodiment, a drainage bag system configured to be connected to a medical treatment table is disclosed, comprising a drainage bag and a band attached to and supporting the drainage bag, the band having at least one protrusion at at least one end thereof, and at least one mounting clamp having a receiving slot configured to receive at least one protrusion of the band. The clamp has a receiving channel configured to receive a treatment table accessory rail or an accessory mounting arm thereof. The clamp has a threaded member configured to secure the clamp to a treatment table accessory or an accessory mounting arm.

[0040] In some embodiments of the drainage bag system described above, at least one ridge includes two ridges, each located at one of the two ends of the band, and at least one mounting clamp includes two mounting clamps, each configured to receive one of those ridges.

[0041] In some embodiments, the receiving slot is configured to provide at least one receptacle extending into the body of the mounting clamp that receives the at least one protrusion, so as to prevent the band from coming out of the receiving slot. In some such embodiments, the at least one mounting clamp includes an upper platform, a lower platform, and a clamp wall. The upper platform may include an upper protruding lip, and the lower platform may include a lower protruding lip. The mounting clamp may further include at least one upper arm extending from the proximal side of the upper platform and at least one lower arm extending from the proximal side of the lower platform.

[0042] In some embodiments, the upper and lower arms are substantially parallel to the surfaces of the upper and lower platforms. In some embodiments, the lower platform includes screw holes and threaded knobs for engaging with the holes. The upper platform may also include screw holes and threaded knobs for engaging with the holes.

[0043] In some embodiments, the upper platform includes a screw hole and a threaded knob for engaging with a rail accessory channel formed by the lower surface of the upper platform and its protruding lip, the upper surface of the lower platform and its protruding lip, arms extending from the upper and lower platforms, and at least one side of the clamp body.

[0044] In some embodiments, the underside of the upper platform comprises at least one chase or channel formed therein. In some such embodiments, the at least one chase may have a width ranging from about 0.9 inches to about 1.6 inches (about 2.286 to about 4.064 cm) and a height ranging from about 0.05 inches to about 0.25 inches (about 0.127 to about 0.635 cm).

[0045] The rail accessory channel is shaped and sized to receive an operating table accessory rail or accessory arm. In some embodiments, the rail accessory channel has a chase cut into or formed therein, the chase configured to receive a projection extending from the upper surface of the accessory mount arm. In some embodiments, the projection includes a fin. In some embodiments, an upper platform with the chase and projection lip, a lower platform with its projection lip, an extension arm, a clamp wall, and a clamp body are formed as a monolithic unit. As an example, but not limited to, such a monolithic unit may be formed from plastic (e.g., polyethylene, polyurethane, polycarbonate, polyethylene terephthalate, or acrylonitrile-butadiene-styrene (ABS)), metal (e.g., aluminum, stainless steel, cast iron, titanium, or brass, or other copper alloys), or a combination thereof.

[0046] In some embodiments, the upper platform having a chase and a protruding lip, the lower platform and its associated protruding lip, the extension arm, the clamp wall, and the clamp body are formed as a combination of separate parts assembled, for example, by press-fitting and / or bonding and / or welding, such as metal parts, plastic parts, or a combination of metal and plastic parts.

[0047] In some embodiments, the band of the drainage bag system according to this teaching is configured to be received in a predetermined position within the clamp via its projections so as to engage with the clamp. In some embodiments, the band may have a width ranging from about 0.5 inches to about 3 inches (about 1.27 cm to about 7.62 cm), although other widths may also be available. Furthermore, in some embodiments, the receiving channel of the clamp may have a width ranging from about 0.2 inches to about 0.45 inches (about 0.508 cm to about 1.143 cm) and a height ranging from about 0.9 inches to about 1.6 inches (about 2.286 cm to about 4.064 cm).

[0048] In a related embodiment, a drainage bag system is disclosed configured to be coupled to a device configured to be coupled to a treatment table or other equipment, comprising a drainage bag, a band attached to and supporting the drainage bag, and a mounting clamp including a receiving slot configured to receive the end of the band, the band having at least two opposing protrusions at its end configured to extend into the receiving slot, and the receiving slot includes a pair of receptacles configured to receive the band protrusions for engaging the band with the mounting clamp. The clamp further includes a receiving channel for receiving either an accessory rail and an accessory mounting arm of the treatment table.

[0049] In some embodiments, the clamp may include a threaded member for securing the clamp to the treatment table.

[0050] In some embodiments, the accessory rail and / or accessory mount has a width ranging from approximately 0.2 inches to approximately 0.45 inches (approximately 0.508 cm to approximately 1.143 cm) and a height ranging from approximately 0.9 to approximately 1.6 inches (approximately 2.286 cm to approximately 4.064 cm).

[0051] A drainage bag system may further include a device mounting mechanism configured to secure the drainage bag system to one of the accessories, and a device coupled to a treatment table. In some embodiments, the accessory mounting mechanism may include at least one arm having a shape and size such that it fits into a receiving channel.

[0052] Additional features, such as those listed above or in the claims, may, either alone or in combination with any other features, constitute a patentable material.

[0053] In another embodiment, the mounting rod can pass through the upper arm of the accessory mount clamp, enter and pass through the hole in the spacer, and further through the hole in the lower arm of the accessory mount clamp. In this embodiment, the mounting rod has a cap at its upper end and a hole at its lower end, through which a cotter key can be placed to secure the spacer to the accessory mount clamp, and then the accessory mount clamp can be secured to the gas cylinder. In yet another embodiment, the upper end of the mounting rod has a cap on it, which can pass through the upper arm of the accessory mount clamp, enter and pass through the hole in the lower arm of the accessory mount clamp. The cap can then be welded, glued, or mechanically attached to the lower end of the mounting rod to secure the spacer to the accessory mount clamp.

[0054] Some embodiments relate to a mount configured to be attached to a mount lug, the mount comprising: an accessory mount clamp having a mount arm extending therefrom; and a spacer having a hole extending through the spacer, through which a rod passes to secure the spacer to the accessory mount clamp, thereby connecting the accessory mount clamp to the mount lug.

[0055] Some embodiments relate to a mount configured to be attached to a mount lug, the mount comprising an accessory mount clamp having a mount arm extending therefrom, and fasteners for connecting the accessory mount clamp to the mount lug.

[0056] The accessory mounting clamp may comprise an upper arm with a hole formed therein, a semicircular portion, and a lower arm with a hole formed therein.

[0057] The proximal mounting lug can be positioned on the stirrup bracket, and the spacer may include a semicircular notch configured to mate with the proximal surface of the mounting lug.

[0058] In some embodiments, the mounting arm is configured to be attached to a disposable clamp to which an accessory can be attached. In some embodiments, the disposable clamp may include a rail receiving channel configured to engage with the mounting arm.

[0059] Some embodiments relate to a mount that includes a cap that attaches to the upper end of the rod to secure the rod to an accessory mount clamp.

[0060] Some embodiments include a cotter key configured to extend through a hole formed in the rod to secure the accessory mount clamp to a spacer, thereby securing the accessory mount clamp to a proximal mount lug, or a retaining pin that secures the cotter key to the rod.

[0061] In some embodiments, the accessory mounting clamp is either monolithic or fabricated from a separate part.

[0062] Some embodiments relate to a mechanism for attaching a first accessory to a second accessory which is attached to an operating table, the mechanism comprising: an accessory mount clamp configured to engage with a proximal mount lug and having a hole formed therein; a mount arm positioned adjacent to the accessory mount clamp; a spacer connectable to the accessory mount clamp; and a rod configured to pass through holes formed in the upper and lower portions of the accessory mount clamp and also through holes formed in the spacer, thereby connecting the spacer and the accessory mount clamp around the proximal mount lug.

[0063] In some embodiments, the second accessory is a leg holder accessory, and the first accessory is a surgical bag.

[0064] In some embodiments, the mounting arm is configured to be attached to a disposable clamp to which an accessory can be attached.

[0065] In some embodiments, the disposable clamp includes a rail receiving channel configured to engage with a mounting arm.

[0066] Some embodiments relate to a mechanism for attaching a first accessory to a second accessory attached to an operating table, the mechanism comprising: an accessory mount clamp configured to engage with a proximal mount lug and having a hole formed therein; a mount arm positioned adjacent to the accessory mount clamp; and a fastener for connecting the accessory mount clamp to the mount lug.

[0067] In some embodiments, the second accessory is a leg holder accessory, or the first accessory is a surgical bag.

[0068] In some embodiments, the mounting arm may be configured to attach to a disposable clamp to which an accessory can be attached, or the disposable clamp may include a rail receiving channel configured to engage with the mounting arm.

[0069] Some embodiments relate to accessory clamps configured to be fixed to the operating table rails of an operating table, the accessory clamp comprising an accessory slot configured to receive a mounting member, a channel formed therein and configured to be attached to the operating table rails, and an accessory mounting arm formed on the distal surface of the accessory clamp on which an accessory can be attached.

[0070] In some embodiments, the extension comprises an upper arm, a lower arm, a circular section, and a rod, with the extension having fins or the accessory mounting clamp configured to secure the adapter to a mounting lug.

[0071] Some embodiments relate to accessory clamps configured to be fixed to the operating table rails of an operating table, the accessory clamp comprising an accessory slot configured to receive a mounting member, a channel formed within the accessory clamp configured to be attached to the operating table rails, and a mounting arm attached to the accessory clamp and configured to receive a disposable clamp attached thereto.

[0072] In some embodiments, the mounting arm includes an extension, or the extension includes a fin.

[0073] In some embodiments, the mounting arm has a notch to receive the upper portion of the mounting arm, or the mounting arm has a hole formed therein for receiving a bolt configured to secure the mounting arm to an accessory clamp.

[0074] In some embodiments, the mounting arm includes a knob configured to secure the mounting member to an accessory clamp.

[0075] In some embodiments, the accessory mount clamp extends at least partially around the proximal mount lug, or the accessory mount clamp extends at least partially around the proximal mount lug.

[0076] In some embodiments, the accessory clamp may include a lug and an accessory mount clamp configured to attach to the lug, and the accessory mount adapter includes an extension configured to receive an accessory.

[0077] In some embodiments, the mounting member is an accessory blade. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0078] Drawings and diagrams are disclosed to aid in describing the present invention and various embodiments of the present invention. The drawings and diagrams are attached and referenced below.

[0079] [Figure 1] Figures 1A and 1B show stirrups mounted on an operating table, one with a conventional drainage bag system and the other without. [Figure 2] Figures 2A and 2B show a diagram of a disposable drainage bag system according to an embodiment of this teaching, mounted on an operating table. Figure 2C is a partial perspective view of various components of the disposable drainage bag system mounted on an operating table, including rails and a fluid storage system. [Figure 3] Figure 3 shows a perspective view of a disposable band comprising a disposable drainage bag drape, a disposable clamp, and a detailed view of a reusable accessory mounting clamp. [Figure 4]Figure 4 shows another perspective view of a disposable band, which includes a disposable drainage bag drape, a disposable clamp, and a detailed part of a reusable accessory mounting clamp. [Figure 5] Figure 5 shows a perspective view of a disposable band comprising a disposable drainage bag, a disposable clamp, and a detailed view of a reusable accessory mounting clamp. [Figure 6] Figure 6 shows details of the stirrup mount lugs, disposable clamps, disposable bands, and accessory mount clamps. [Figure 7] Figure 7 shows another diagram of the stirrup mount lugs, disposable clamps, disposable bands, and accessory mount clamps in detail. [Figure 8] Figure 8 shows details of the disposable clamps, disposable bands, and operating table rails. [Figure 9] Figure 9 shows details of a medical device, particularly an accessory mounting mechanism coupled to lugs protruding from a stirrup mount bracket. [Figure 10] Figure 10 shows a cross-sectional view of a disposable clamp, a band receiving slot, and a flexible band having a flexible projection engaged with a through hole in the band receiving slot, with the disposable rail clamp engaged with an accessory mounting arm. [Figure 11] Figures 11A and 11B show cut sections of the disposable clamp and rail receiving channel of the system according to an embodiment of this teaching. [Figure 12] Figure 12 shows an embodiment in which the mount is attached to the proximal mount lug of the stirrup gas cylinder. [Figure 13] Figure 13 shows an embodiment in which the mount is attached to the proximal mount lug of the stirrup gas cylinder. [Figure 14] Figure 14 shows an exploded view of one embodiment in which the mount is attached to a mounting lug formed on an accessory clamp. [Figure 15]Figure 15 shows one embodiment of a mounting arm for mounting to an accessory clamp. [Figure 16] Figure 16 shows a mounting arm for a mount that attaches to an accessory clamp. [Figure 17] Figures 17A to C show side, cross-sectional, and top views of a bladed accessory (leg holder / stirrup) attached to the side rail of an operating table via an accessory clamp. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0080] This disclosure relates, in general, to drainage bag systems configured to be coupled to an operating table. Various terms are used herein in accordance with their common meanings in the art. The term “about” as used herein is intended to indicate a variation of up to 10% in numerical values. The term “surgical table” as used herein generally refers to a medical table used when performing medical procedures on a patient, such as urological or gynecological procedures.

[0081] The term "semi-rigid component" is defined as a member or component formed or constructed such that, when a force is applied to its center, the elongation (change in length) of the unloaded length of the member is greater than 0% but less than 0.10% before failure.

[0082] The term "flexible component" is defined as a component or member that, when a force is applied to its center, is formed or constructed such that the elongation of the unloaded length of the member is 0.10% or more.

[0083] Figures 1A and 1B show stirrups mounted on an operating table using a conventional system, with and without a drainage bag system. In Figure 1A, the stirrup 02A is attached to the operating table 11A by a rail clamp 07A. The patient's legs 01A are held in place by a stirrup boot 03A supported by a stirrup gas cylinder 04A attached to the stirrup at the distal stirrup attachment point on 14A, and a proximal stirrup gas cylinder mounting lug 05A attached to the stirrup bracket 00A. As shown in Figure 1A, a disposable clamp 12A holds a flexible band 13A to which the drainage bag 14A is attached. At the attachment point of the disposable clamp 12A on the operating table rail 10A, the attachment points of the table clamp 07A and the stirrup 02A can be moved proximal downward on the operating table rail 10A by a distance equal to "x" toward the patient's head. In Figure 1A, the rotation center of the proximal stirrup locking joint 09A is offset from the rotation center of the patient's waist 08A. This offset is caused by the mounting of a disposable rail clamp 12A on the distal end of the operating table rail 10A at a distance "x". Figure 1B shows the mounting of a stirrup without a disposable drainage bag system of current technology. In Figure 1B, the rotation point of the patient's waist 08B and the rotation point of the proximal stirrup locking joint 09B are on the same extension in the horizontal plane and are thus aligned by appropriately positioning the rail clamp 07B on the distal end of the operating table rail 10B of the operating table 11B. The patient's legs 01B are held within the stirrup boot 03B of the stirrup 02B and supported by a stirrup gas cylinder 04B at the distal stirrup mounting point 14B and the proximal stirrup gas spring mounting lug 05B attached to the stirrup mounting bracket 00B.

[0084] Figures 2A and 2B schematically show a disposable drainage bag system 110 according to one embodiment of this teaching, mounted on the side rail 106 of an operating table 107. The drainage bag system 110 includes a flexible band 105 to which a drainage bag 101 having a mesh filter 104 is attached, and a first disposable clamp 100A and a second disposable clamp 100B shown to be attached to the distal end of the operating table side rail 106. The drainage bag 101 is fitted with a drainage tube 103 and a fluid storage system 102. The drainage bag drape 110 is supported by the flexible band 105 and kept open during surgery. The flexible band 105 is connected to the disposable clamps 100A and 100B, which can then be attached to the distal end of the side rail 106 of the operating table 107. A threaded tube 103 attached to the fluid reservoir 102 engages with and attaches to the flap 111, allowing fluid to flow from the drainage bag 101 to the fluid storage system 102.

[0085] The illustrated drainage bag 101 is composed of a thin, translucent flexible sheet of plastic material and has a flap 111 attached thereto. In this embodiment, the drainage bag 101 is substantially V-shaped and includes a mesh filter 104 composed of thin, flexible strips of polymer material arranged in an alternating or cross pattern, and the drainage bag 101 includes a flap 111 attached to a hole 101a (not shown) at its bottom, allowing fluid to be drained from the system and into the reservoir 102. The mesh filter 104 collects waste that may be by-products of the surgical procedure, and if not captured within the mesh filter, it may clog the threaded tube 111, preventing the fluid from being collected into the fluid reservoir 102. In other embodiments, the mesh filter is absent.

[0086] Multiple different polymer materials may be used to construct the drainage bag. Some examples of such polymer materials, but not limited to, include high-density polyethylene, low-density polyethylene polypropylene, medium-density polyethylene, or biodegradable olefin materials.

[0087] As shown in Figure 2B, the flexible band 105 has two notches 116 cut into its ends to form upper and lower projections 115. The upper and lower projections 115 have two ridges 113 formed thereon. In this embodiment, the disposable drainage bag 101 has a sleeve 112 into which the flexible band 105 with projections 115 and their associated serrated distal ridges 113 can be inserted. It is understood that the serrated ridges are merely illustrative. In other embodiments, these ridges may be circular, serrated or thorny, linear buttons, hooks, pegs, or other shapes. The sleeve 112 of the disposable drainage bag 101 fits around the flexible band 105, connecting the disposable drainage bag 101 to the flexible band 105. The flexible band 105 supports and holds the disposable drainage bag 101 in an open position, as shown in Figure 2A.

[0088] The flexible band 105 is easily flexible horizontally and semi-rigid vertically. Because the flexible band 105 is easily flexible horizontally, it can bend in response to a clinician moving against or contacting the band, allowing the clinician to approach the operating table 107 without obstructing the disposable drainage bag system 110. In this embodiment, the disposable flexible band 105 is made from a flexible plastic, but in other embodiments it may be made from other suitable materials. The disposable clamps 100A and 100B are substantially equivalent to each other, mirror images. As will be described in more detail below, the disposable clamps 100A and 100B can be attached to the distal end of the operating table rail 106 of the operating table 107.

[0089] Figure 2C shows a detailed embodiment of the flexible band 105 (referred to here as flexible band 213 to facilitate the description of the various components), disposable drainage bag 101 (referred to as disposable drainage bag 214 in this example), disposable clamp 200 (which may correspond to one of disposable clamps 100A / 100B), and accessory mounting clamp 215. In the embodiment shown in Figure 2C, the disposable clamp 200 has an upper ledge 205 with an upper ledge chase 231 and an extension stabilizer 202. Furthermore, the disposable clamp 200 has both an outer surface (not shown) and an inner surface 209 that forms a rail receiving channel 208.

[0090] In this embodiment, the lower surface 205a of the upper ledge 205, together with the upper ledge chase 231 and the stabilizer extension 203, forms the upper surface of the rail receiving channel 208, and the lower ledge 206, together with the stabilizer extension 203, forms the lower surface of the rail receiving channel 208. In some embodiments, the lip 210 extends downward from the upper ledge 205 and forms one proximal surface of the rail receiving channel 208, while the lip 211 extends from the lower ledge 206 and forms another proximal surface of the rail receiving channel 208. The distal surface 209 forms the proximal surface of the rail receiving channel 208. In this embodiment, the threaded knob 201 engages with and fits into a threaded hole (not shown) in the lower ledge 206. In other embodiments, the threaded hole can be formed in the upper ledge 205. Instead of the threaded knob 201, you can also use bolts such as cotter pins, lugged threaded pins, or any other suitable fastener.

[0091] In the embodiment shown in Figure 2C, when the surgical table rail (not shown) or mounting arm 218 of the accessory mounting clamp 215 with fins 230 engages with the surgical table rail receiving channel 208 of the disposable clamp 200, the threaded knob 201 can enter and engage through a threaded hole (not shown) in the lower ledge 206. The engagement of the threaded knob 201 with the threaded hole (not shown) secures the disposable clamp to the surgical table rail (not shown) or accessory mounting arm 218 via its fins 230. More specifically, in this figure, it can be seen that the fins 230 engage with the upper ledge chase 231 when the threaded knob enters and engages through the threaded hole in the lower ledge 206 (not shown). After the surgical procedure is completed, the threaded knob 201 can be disengaged from the hole in the lower ledge 206, disengaging the disposable clamp 200 from the mounting arm 218 (or surgical table rail) with fins 230 and allowing it to be removed.

[0092] In this embodiment, when a mounting arm 218, which has an operating table rail (not shown) or fins 230, engages with the rail receiving channel 208 of a disposable clamp having an upper ledge chase 231 and stabilizer extensions 202 and 203, the disposable clamp 204 is protected from any torsional or rotational forces it may encounter. In this embodiment, the disposable clamp 200 has a flexible band receiving slot 207 formed on one of its sides. The band receiving slot 208 has two through holes formed thereon, one on the upper side and one on the lower side (not shown) of the band receiving slot 207 (illustrated).

[0093] However, in other embodiments, three or more through holes may be formed in the band receiving slot 207, or in yet another embodiment, only one through hole may be formed. Also, while through holes are shown in this embodiment, it should be understood that in other embodiments, a recess may be formed in the band receiving slot 207. In this embodiment, the through hole 204 in the band receiving slot 207 is shown as linear, but it should be understood that the through hole 204 may have a different shape than that shown in Figure 2C. Alternatively, as described above, instead of one or more through holes, a recess may be formed and present in the band receiving slot 207 in other embodiments.

[0094] In this embodiment, the disposable flexible band 213 is fitted onto the sleeve 228 of the disposable drainage bag 214, as shown in Figure 2C. The flexible band 213 has a notched notch 230 at its end, forming an insertion projection 229 with serrated ridges 212. In this embodiment, the maximum distance "Z" between the serrated ridges 212 is slightly greater than the height of the band receiving slot 207. As used herein, the phrase "slightly greater" is defined as being 0.01 inches to 0.15 inches (0.0254 cm to 0.381 cm) greater. The band 213 may also include one or more tabs configured to fit into slots (or more slots) formed on the back side of the disposable clamp 200 to secure the band 213 to the disposable clamp 200. When the end of the flexible band 203 engages in the band receiving slot 207, the ridge 212 is pushed down slightly so that the tension on them is released when the ridge 212 engages in the through hole 204, engaging the ridge 212 in the hole 204 and connecting the flexible band 213 to the disposable clamp 200. In other embodiments, the through hole 204 may be a recess sized to receive the ridge 212.

[0095] One embodiment of the accessory mount clamp 215 shown in Figure 2C includes an upper arm 216 having a hole 220, a lower arm 217 having a threaded hole 221, a semicircular section 219 having a mount arm 218 having a fin 230, and a spacer 223 having a through hole 224. The connecting rod 225 includes a threaded end 227 having a flat head on the end 226 side. The connecting rod 225 is pressed into the hole 220 formed in the upper arm 216, passes through there through to the hole 222 of the spacer 223, exits through the hole 224, and engages with the threaded hole 221 of the lower arm 217, thus allowing the spacer 223 to be fixed to the accessory mount clamp 215. In this embodiment, the accessory mount clamp 215 is formed as a monolithic structure from plastic or metal, but it is understood that each of the components can be assembled by bonding, press-fitting, or welding these components to each other in any combination. In this embodiment, the spacer 223 is shown as a linear block, but in other embodiments it may be a square, circular, semicircular, or "T"-shaped monolith. The rail receiving channel 208, which includes extension stabilizers 202 and 203 of the disposable clamp 200, can engage with the mounting arm 218, while the mounting arm fin 230 can engage with the upper ledge chase 231 of the accessory mounting clamp 215.

[0096] Figure 3 shows another perspective view of an embodiment comprising a flexible band 313, a disposable drainage bag 321, a disposable clamp 300, an accessory mounting clamp 316, a spacer 322, and a rod 326. The flexible band 313 engages with the sleeve 320 of the drainage bag 321. In this embodiment, the disposable clamp 300 has an upper ledge 305. The upper ledge 305 and the extension stabilizer 302, together with the proximal surface of the clamp wall 309, form the distal surface of the rail receiving channel 308. In this embodiment, an upper ledge chase 334 is formed on the lower surface of the upper ledge 305.

[0097] The stabilizer extension 302 of the upper ledge 305 forms the upper surface of the rail receiving channel 308, while the lower ledge 331, which includes the stabilizer extension 303, forms the lower surface of the rail receiving channel 308. In some embodiments, the threaded knob 301 engages with and fits into a threaded hole (not shown) in the lower ledge 331. When engaged with the rail receiving channel 308, the threaded knob 301 engages with the accessory mounting arm 318 via fins 315 within the rail receiving channel 308. In this embodiment, the flexible band 313 has two notches 333 cut into its ends to form upper and lower projections 330 with ridges 312. The maximum distance between the ridges 312, which is "Z", is slightly greater than the height of the flexible band receiving slot 307 of the disposable clamp 300. As stated herein, the term “slightly larger” is intended to mean approximately 0.01 inches to approximately 0.15 inches (approximately 0.0254 cm to approximately 0.381 cm) larger. When the end of the flexible band 313 engages with the band receiving slot 307 of the disposable clamp 300, the ridge 312 is slightly pushed down, and the engagement of the ridge 312 with the hole 304 in the band receiving slot 307 creates tension that secures the disposable clamp 300 to the flexible band 313.

[0098] Figure 3 shows an embodiment of an accessory mount clamp 331 comprising an upper arm 316 having a hole 320, a lower arm 317 having a threaded hole 321, a semicircular section 319 having a mounting arm 318 with a fin 315, and a spacer 322 further having a through hole 323. In this embodiment, the spacer 322 with a flange 324 is shown as a "t" shaped component, but it is understood that it may be square, linear, spherical, hemispherical, or other suitable shape. The connecting rod 326 includes a threaded end 325 with a flat head on the end 327 side. The connecting rod 326 is pushed into the hole 320 of the upper arm 316, passes through there, through the through hole 323 of the flange 324 of the spacer 322, exits the hole, and engages with the threaded hole 221 of the lower arm 217, thereby enabling the spacer 322 to be engaged with the accessory mount clamp 331.

[0099] In this embodiment, the "u"-shaped portion of the accessory mount clamp 331 is formed as a monolithic structure from plastic, metal, or both; however, in some embodiments, the mount clamp 331 can be formed as separate components that are assembled together, for example, by bonding, press-fitting, or welding. The rail receiving channel 308, which includes the extension stabilizers 302 and 303 of the disposable clamp 300 and the upper ledge chase 334, can engage with the mount arm 318 of the accessory mount clamp 331.

[0100] Figure 4 shows an embodiment of a flexible band 400 engaged within a disposable clamp 401 and mounted on the sleeve 412 of a disposable drainage bag 411, which is then connected to an accessory mount clamp 413. In this embodiment, the flexible band 400 is fully engaged within a flexible band receiving slot 415. The flexible band has notches 420 cut into its ends to form upper and lower projections 421. A ridge 414 is formed on the projections 421. The distance "Z" between the ridges 414 is slightly greater than the height of the band receiving slot 415 of the disposable clamp 418. As stated above, the phrase "slightly greater" as used herein means about 0.10 to about 0.15 inches (about 0.254 to about 0.381 cm) greater.

[0101] When the end of the flexible band 400 engages with the band receiving slot 415, the ridge 414 is pushed down slightly, and when the ridge 414 engages with the through hole 414, tension is generated so that the flexible band 411 is secured to the disposable clamp 418. The accessory mount clamp 413 includes an upper arm 406 with a hole 407, a lower arm 409 with a screw hole 408, and a semicircular section 410 with an extension arm 405. The mount arm 405 extends perpendicularly from the semicircular section 410. The rail receiving channel of the disposable clamp 401, formed by the upper ledge 418 with a stabilizer extension 404 and the lower ledge 417 with a stabilizer extension 419, can engage with the mount arm 405 of the accessory mount clamp 413. The threaded knob 416 can engage with the threaded hole in the lower ledge 417 of the disposable clamp 410, thereby securing the mounting arm 405 to the disposable clamp 401, and then securing the accessory mounting clamp 413 to the disposable clamp 401.

[0102] Figure 5 shows an embodiment of this teaching in which the mount 500 is attached to a stirrup gas cylinder proximal mount lug 502 and a disposable clamp 509. A stirrup bracket 501 for attaching a stirrup (not shown) to an operating table (not shown) has a stirrup gas cylinder proximal mount lug 502 attached thereto. The accessory mount clamp 516 includes an upper arm 505 with a threaded hole 504, a semicircular section 506 with a mount arm 507 in a right-angle position, and a lower arm 518 with a hole 510. The accessory mount clamp 516 and the spacer 503 can be connected around the stirrup gas cylinder proximal mount lug 502 by passing a rod 511, which has a threaded end 512 and a flat-headed end 513, through the hole 520 in the lower arm 518 of the accessory mount clamp 516 and through the hole 514 in the spacer 503, so that the threaded end of the rod 511 engages with the threaded hole 504 in the upper arm 505.

[0103] Using the accessory mount clamp 516 connected to the spacer 503, the upper arm 505, the semicircular section 506, the lower arm 518, and the surface of the spacer 503 are fitted snugly against the surface of the stirrup gas spring proximal mount lug 502. A disposable clamp 509 can engage with the mount arm 507 to secure it to the stirrup gas cylinder mount lug 502.

[0104] Figure 6 shows an enlarged view of an embodiment of the mount 602. The mount 602 includes a "T" shaped spacer 603 having a flange 620 with a semicircular cutout 621, a mounting rod 605 having a threaded end 633 and a flat head end 632 and a through hole 604, and an accessory mount clamp 611, the accessory mount clamp 611 including an upper arm 607 having a threaded hole 617 and a lower arm 608 having a hole 604. In this embodiment, the flange 620 of the spacer 603 with the semicircular cutout is molded so that its surface fits snugly against the surface of the mount lug 610, the mount lug 610 is attached to the stirrup bracket 601 and attaches a stirrup (not shown) to an operating table (not shown).

[0105] In this embodiment, the spacer 603 is shown as a "T"-shaped monolith, but in other embodiments, the spacer 603 can be square or linear, while the flange 620 can be linear, round or elliptical. The accessory mount clamp 611 includes an upper arm 607 with a threaded hole 617, a semicircular portion 616, and a lower arm 608 with a hole 618. In this embodiment, the accessory mount clamp 611 is shown as a monolith, but it can be made from several separate components that can be press-fitted, welded, or bonded. The spacer 603 can be made from plastic or metal, or a combination of these materials, such as those listed above in relation to the previous embodiments.

[0106] Spacer 603 has a through hole 604 in flange 620 with a semicircular notch 621, allowing the surface of flange 620 to tightly engage with the proximal surface of the gas cylinder proximal mount lug 602. Accessory mount clamp 611 also includes a mount arm 609. Disposable clamp 630 has upper and lower stabilizer extensions 612 and 613 and rail receiving channels 622 formed by the lower surface of the upper ledge 626 and the upper surface of the lower ledge 630, respectively. In this embodiment, the rail receiving channel 622 of disposable clamp 630 can engage with the mount arm 609 of accessory mount clamp 611. A threaded hole 614 is formed in the upper ledge 626, into which a threaded knob 625 can be engaged. The mount arm 609 of accessory mount 602 can engage with the rail clamp receiving channel 622 of disposable clamp 630. When the threaded knob 625 engages with the threaded hole 614, the disposable clamp 630 is secured to the mounting arm of the reusable mount 602. In this embodiment, the threaded hole 614 is formed in the upper ledge 626, but in other embodiments it may be formed in the lower ledge of the disposable clamp 630.

[0107] Figure 7 shows details of the connection between the operating table side rail 712, the disposable clamp 715, and the flexible band 701. The disposable clamp 715 has an upper ledge 704 with a lip 714, a lower ledge 706 with a lip 716, a proximal clamp wall 718, an upper stabilizer extension 705, a lower stabilizer extension 708, and a band receiving slot 710 with a through hole 703. This embodiment shows four through holes, but other embodiments may have at least two through holes. Yet another embodiment may have at least two recesses instead of through holes. The lower ledge 706 has a screw hole 707 into which a threaded knob 709 can be engaged. The rail receiving channel 711 of the disposable clamp 715 is formed from the proximal clamp wall 718, the lower surface of the upper ledge 704, the upper surface of the lower ledge 706, the upper lip 714, the lower lip 716, the upper extension 705, and the lower extension 708.

[0108] The operating table rail 712 can engage within the rail receiving channel 711, and the threaded knob 709 can enter and engage through the threaded hole 707 to secure the disposable clamp 715 to the operating table rail 712. The flexible band 701 has a notch 719 formed or cut out at its end to form a projection 720. The projection 720 has a ridge 702. This embodiment shows that each projection 720 has two ridges, but other embodiments may have one ridge on each projection, and yet another embodiment may have three or more ridges. The distance "z" between the projections 720 is slightly greater than the height of the band receiving slot 710. The phrase "slightly greater" is defined as 0.10 to 0.15 inches (0.254 to 0.381 cm) greater. When the end of the flexible band 701 engages with the band receiving slot 710, the ridge 702 is slightly pushed down. When the protrusion 702 engages with the hole 703 of the disposable clamp 715, the flexible band 701 is secured to the disposable clamp 715.

[0109] Figure 8 shows details of a disposable drainage bag 810 comprising a flexible band 807 and a sleeve 809, and a disposable clamp 816. The disposable clamp 816 has an upper ledge 804 with a lip 811, a lower ledge 812 with a lip 813, a proximal clamp wall 814, an upper stabilizer extension 805, a lower stabilizer extension 806, and a band receiving slot 801 with a through hole 802. This embodiment shows four through holes, but other embodiments may have at least two through holes. Other embodiments may have at least two recesses instead of through holes. The lower ledge 812 has a screw hole 803 into which a threaded knob 817 can be engaged. The end of the flexible band 807 has two notches 819 cut into it to form a projection 820 comprising a ridge 808. This embodiment shows two ridges 808 formed on each projection 820, but in other embodiments, the projection 820 may have one or more ridges 808. The distance "z" is slightly greater than the height of the band receiving slot 801. As stated above, the phrase "slightly greater" is intended to indicate that the distance "z" is only slightly greater than the height of the band receiving slot 801 by an amount in the range of approximately 0.10 to 0.15 inches (approximately 0.254 to 0.381 cm).

[0110] When the end of the flexible band 820 engages with the band receiving slot 801, the ridge 808 is pushed down slightly so that the flexible band 829 is secured to the disposable clamp 816 when the ridge 808 engages with the hole 802 of the disposable clamp 816. The disposable drainage bag 810 has a sleeve 809 that can be mounted on the flexible band 807. The disposable drainage bag 810 and sleeve 809 can be made of clear plastic. A threaded tube 815 is attached to the bottom of the drainage bag 810 so that fluid can flow into a fluid collection reservoir (not shown).

[0111] Figure 9 illustrates several embodiments of an accessory mounting mechanism for surgical instruments, particularly an accessory mounting mechanism attached to a projection extending from a lithotomy stirrup. This includes the distal surface of the flange 903 of a spacer 906 that fits snugly against the proximal surface of a stirrup gas cylinder mount lug 902 attached to a stirrup mount bracket 901. The proximal surface of the accessory mount clamp 905 fits snugly against the upper, lower, and distal surfaces of the stirrup gas cylinder mount lug 902. A flexible band 910 is attached to a disposable clamp 909 and then to an accessory mounting mechanism mount arm (not shown).

[0112] Figure 10 shows a cross-sectional view of a disposable clamp 1000 comprising an upper ledge 1010 and a lower ledge 1011, a lower lip 1005 and an upper lip 1002, a clamp wall 1001 with an inner wall 1017, and a band receiving slot 1006 into which a flexible band 1012 is engaged, with the lower projection 1009 and upper projection 1013 of the flexible band 1012 engaged with through holes 1014 and 1013. The rail receiving channel 1021 is formed by the upper ledge 1010, the lower ledge 1011, the lower lip 1005, the upper lip 1002, and the inner wall 1017 of the disposable clamp 1000. The upper ledge chase 1019 is cut into or formed in the lower surface of the upper ledge 1010. The accessory mounting arm 1004 is shown engaged with the rail receiving channel, while the fin 1020 is engaged with the upper ledge chase 1019. The threaded knob 1015 enters and passes through the threaded hole 1016 of the lower ledge 1011 to engage and secure the mounting arm 1004 to the clamp 1000.

[0113] Figures 11A and 11B show a cross-sectional view of one embodiment of a disposable clamp 1100, which comprises an upper ledge 1102, a lower ledge 1107, an upper lip projection 1103 with an engaging surface 1115, a lower lip projection 1105, an upper ledge chase 1104, and a proximal clamp wall 1115 with a notch 1116, which together constitute a rail receiving channel 1101. In one embodiment, the rail receiving channel 1101 has a width "Z" of, for example, about 0.4 inches (1.016 cm). In some embodiments, the upper surface of the notch 1116 is at a distance "N" from the lower edge of the engaging surface 1115, where in some embodiments N may be equal to about 0.125 inches (0.3175 cm). The disposable clamp 1100 has a band receiving slot 1109 with a slot through hole 1110 and a threaded hole 1111 in the lower ledge 1107 with a threaded knob 1112. In this embodiment, the center line "E" of the threaded hole 1111 in the lower ledge 1107 is offset by a distance "Q" from the center line "E" of the disposable clamp 1110. The width of the rail 1114 is less than the width of the rail receiving channel 1101 by "R", where in some embodiments "R" may be equal to about 0.15 inches (about 0.381 cm), and the width "Y" of the chase 1104 formed on the lower surface of the upper ledge 1102 may be equal to about 0.25 inches (about 0.635 cm). When fully engaged with the threaded hole 1111, the threaded knob 1112 pushes the table rail 1114, which has a width "Y", into the chase 1104.

[0114] Figures 12 and 13 illustrate embodiments in which additional instruments can be secured to the operating table in positions other than the operating table rails. Figure 12 shows an embodiment of this teaching in which a stirrup bracket 1201 is attached to a stirrup gas cylinder proximal mounting lug 1202 of a stirrup mount 1200. The stirrup bracket 1201, which attaches a stirrup (not shown) to an operating table (not shown), for example to the operating table rails, has a stirrup gas cylinder proximal mounting lug 1202 attached thereto. The mounting bracket 1201 of mount 1200 can be attached to an accessory clamp 1216. See Figure 17 for details on attaching such a bladed accessory to the operating table. The accessory mounting clamp 1216 includes an upper arm 1205 with a hole 1214, a semicircular section 1206 with a mounting arm 1207 in a right-angle position, and a lower arm 1218 with a hole 1214. The cap 1230 can be permanently attached to the upper end of the rod 1211 by passing the rod 1211, which has a flat head end 1213, through the hole 1214 in the lower arm 1218 of the accessory mount clamp 1216, so that the end of the rod 1211 passes through the hole 1214 in the upper arm 1205, thereby securing the rod 1211 to the accessory mount clamp 1216 using a spacer 1203 connected around the stirrup gas cylinder proximal mount lug 1202. In another embodiment, the upper arm 1205 can be secured to the lower arm 1218 without using a spacer, using the rod 1211 or other suitable fasteners. Examples of suitable fasteners include bolts, and other suitable fasteners, but not limited to these, include threaded screws or bolts with cotter pins. An accessory clamp (not shown) can be attached to a disposable clamp / mount arm 1207, while a device or accessory (not shown) can be secured to the accessory clamp. Examples of instruments and accessories include drainage bags 101, instruments including scopes, retractors, forceps, arm holders, and anesthesia screens.

[0115] Figure 13 illustrates yet another embodiment of this teaching, in which the mount 1300 is attached to the stirrup gas cylinder proximal mounting lug 1302. A stirrup bracket 1301 for attaching a stirrup (not shown) to an operating table (not shown) has a stirrup gas cylinder proximal mounting lug 1302 attached thereto. The accessory mounting clamp 1316 includes an upper arm 1305 with a hole 1314, a semicircular section 1306 with a mounting arm 1307 in a right-angle position, and a lower arm 1318 with a hole 1314. The accessory mount clamp 1316 is secured to the spacer 1303 connected around the stirrup gas cylinder proximal mount allug 1302 by passing a rod 1311 with a flat head end 1313 through a hole 1314 in the lower arm 1318 of the accessory mount clamp 1316, and inserting the end of the rod 1311 with a pinhole 1340 through a hole 1314 in the upper arm 1305, placing a cotter key 1342 in the pinhole 1340, and placing a fixing pin 1343 in the hole of the cotter key 1342. The accessory mount clamp 1316 can be secured to the spacer 1303 connected around the stirrup gas cylinder proximal mount allug 1302. The accessory clamp (not shown) can be attached to the mount arm 1307, while a device (not shown) can be secured to the accessory clamp (not shown). A fin 1350 may be included on top of the accessory mount clamp 1316, providing a more secure connection. In another embodiment, as shown in the lower left portion of Figure 13, the upper portion of the mount 1300 can be secured to the lower portion of the mount 1300 using the rod 1355 or other suitable fasteners, without using a spacer.

[0116] Figure 14 shows an embodiment of a surgical table accessory rail clamp 1450 having an accessory mounting arm 1418 formed on a distal surface 1453 with fins 1415 to which accessories can be attached. In this embodiment, the surgical table rail accessory clamp 1450 and the accessory mounting arm 1418 with fins 1415 can be formed as a monolithic structure from plastic or metal, but it is understood that each component can be assembled by gluing, press-fitting, or welding these components together in any combination. In another embodiment, a mounting lug 1402 is formed on the side 1454 of the surgical table accessory rail clamp 1450, allowing an accessory mounting clamp 1416 to be removably attached to the clamp 1450. The mounting arm 1418A with fins 1415A is formed on the accessory mounting clamp 1416 having a circular portion 1406. Holes 1415 with threaded ends 1414 are formed through the lower arm 1408 and the upper arm 1405 of the accessory mounting clamp 1416. A bolt 1411 with a threaded end 1412 can engage with a hole 1415 having a threaded end 1414 in the upper arm 1405, thereby securing the accessory mount clamp 1416 to the mounting lug 1402 of the operating table accessory rail clamp 1450. Other embodiments of the bolt 1411 may include a cotter pin method for securing the bolt 1411 and thus securing the accessory mount clamp 1416 to the mounting lug 1402. The rail receiving channel of a disposable clamp with a stabilizer (not shown) can engage with and secure the accessory mount arm 1418A having a fin 1415A. In this embodiment, the rail clamp 1450 with a tightening knob 1452 has an accessory blade receiving slot 1451 formed on its upper surface 1455 to receive a surgical accessory mount blade 1453. The receiving slot 1451 can be any type of opening, such as a round opening, an elliptical opening, or a linear opening.The knob 1452 has a threaded stud 1466 that can be screwed into and passed through a hole (not shown) in the front surface 1480 of the accessory clamp 1450, thereby securing the accessory blade 1453 to the rail clamp 1450. The tightening knob 1452 then presses against the operating table side rail 1468, securing the clamp to the operating table (not shown). A channel 1462 may be formed on the proximal side of the knob 1452 and may be sized to receive the operating table side rail 1464. In other embodiments, the rail clamp 1450 may have an accessory round post receiving hole formed on its upper surface 1455 to receive an accessory mount post (not shown). In yet another embodiment, the rail clamp 1450 may have both a blade receiving slot and an accessory round post receiving hole formed on its upper surface 1455.

[0117] Figure 15 illustrates yet another aspect of the present disclosure. The operating table 1575 has an operating table side rail 1568 attached to the operating table by standoffs (not shown). An accessory mounting blade 1553 may be inserted into an accessory slot 1551 formed in the upper surface 1555 of the operating table accessory rail clamp 1550 and secured to the clamp by a tightening knob 1552 which may have a threaded screw (not shown) attached thereto. The operating table accessory rail clamp 1550 comprises an accessory mounting arm 1518 formed or attached to its distal end, as shown in Figure 15. The accessory mounting arm 1518 may comprise a fin 1515. The accessory mounting arm 1518 and the fin 1515 may be formed as a monolithic structure from plastic or metal, but each of the components may be assembled by gluing, press-fitting or welding these components together in any combination and attached to the distal end of the operating table rail accessory clamp 1550. The rail receiving channel of the disposable clamp 1516 equipped with a stabilizer can engage with and secure the accessory mounting arm 1518 equipped with a fin 1515. In this embodiment, the operating table accessory rail clamp 1550 is equipped with a tightening knob 1552. In other embodiments, the rail clamp 1550 may have an accessory round post receiving hole formed on its upper surface 1555 to receive an accessory mounting post (not shown). In yet another embodiment, the rail clamp 1550 may have both a blade receiving slot and an accessory round post receiving hole formed on its upper surface 1555. The mounting arm 1518 equipped with the fin 1515 can be secured to the accessory clamp 1550 using a bolt 1583. The disposable clamp 1501 can be removably secured to the mounting arm 1518 of the accessory clamp 1550.

[0118] Figure 16 illustrates one embodiment of a surgical table accessory rail clamp 1650, comprising a rail receiving channel 1680, a knob 1652, an accessory blade receiving slot 1651 formed through the upper surface 1655 capable of receiving a surgical accessory blade mount 1653, and a screw hole 1684. The channel 1680 is formed through the distal surface 1690 of the accessory clamp 1650. A mounting arm 1618 with fins 1615 can be attached to the surgical table accessory rail clamp 1650 by passing a threaded bolt 1681 through a screw hole 1684 formed in the clamp 1650, passing through a hole 1683 in the mounting arm 1618. A knob 1652 fitted with a threaded stud (not shown) can be screwed into a hole (not shown) formed on the front surface of the accessory clamp 1650. A notch 1692 can be formed on the proximal end of the accessory clamp 1650. The hole 1684 can be formed in the front surface 1694 of the notch 1692. The mounting arm 1618 has a horizontal portion 1694 and a vertical portion 1696. The hole 1683 can be formed in the vertical portion 1696 of the mounting arm 1618. A threaded bolt 1681 can be fitted into the hole 1683 to secure the mounting arm 1618 to the accessory clamp 1650.

[0119] In other embodiments, the operating table rail clamp 1650 may have an accessory round post receiving hole formed on its upper surface 1655 to receive an accessory mount post (not shown). In yet another embodiment, the rail clamp 1650 may have both a blade receiving slot and an accessory round post receiving hole formed on the upper surface 1655 of the operating table accessory rail clamp.

[0120] Figures 17A–17C show a leg-retaining stirrup accessory with a blade attached to the operating table side rail 1768 of the operating table 1755 via an accessory clamp 1750. A portion of the stirrup 1746 is shown with an operating joint 1783 that allows distal operation and multiple movements of the stirrup using the action of a distal handle (not shown) at the distal end (not shown) of the stirrup. A support tube 1785 to which a leg-retaining boot (not shown) may be attached is connected to the operating joint 1783. The operating joint 1783 can be attached to the blade mount 1753 by bolts 1781. A stirrup gas cylinder 1787 can be attached to the mounting blade 1753 via mounting lugs 1702 formed on or attached to the mounting blade 1753. The accessory clamp 1750 has a channel 1780 (see Figure 17C) sized to receive the operating table rail 1768. The operating table rail 1768 can be attached to the operating table 1775 by standoffs 1791. The accessory clamp 1750 has a receiving slot 1751 formed through its top surface 1755 (see Figure 17B). The mounting blade 1753 has a lower mounting tongue 1795 that can be fitted into and pass through the receiving slot 1751 of the accessory clamp 1750. A threaded screw 1762 can be attached to the knob 1752 and fitted into and screwed into a through hole (not shown) formed through the front surface of the accessory clamp 1750. By screwing the threaded screw 1762 through the hole (not shown) on the front surface of the accessory clamp 1750, the lower mounting tongue 1795 of the mounting blade 1753 can be fixed to the accessory clamp 1750, thereby fixing the accessory clamp 1750 to the operating table side rail 1768 and therefore to the operating table 1775.

[0121] While certain exemplary embodiments have been described in detail above, many embodiments, variations, and modifications are possible within the scope and spirit of this disclosure, as described herein and defined in the following claims.

Claims

1. A mount configured to attach a stirrup to a cylindrical mounting lug positioned on a stirrup bracket that attaches a stirrup to the distal end of a surgical table side rail, wherein the mount: An accessory mount clamp comprising an upper arm with a hole formed therein, a semicircular portion that contacts the outer surface of the mount lug, a lower arm with a hole formed therein, and a mount arm that protrudes and extends from the accessory mount clamp; and The spacer comprises a hole extending through the spacer and a semicircular notch configured to fit into the outer circumferential surface of the mounting lug, wherein a rod passes through the hole in the accessory mounting clamp and the hole in the spacer, thereby fixing the spacer to the accessory mounting clamp and thereby fixing the accessory mounting clamp to the mounting lug. Equipped with, The mount can be fixed at any angle around the central axis of the mount lug, The mount arm is a plate-shaped member corresponding to the cross-sectional shape of the operating table side rail, and is configured to be fitted into a rail receiving channel that receives the operating table side rail.

2. The mount according to claim 1, wherein the mounting arm is configured to be attached to a disposable clamp to which an accessory can be attached.

3. The mount according to claim 2, wherein the disposable clamp includes the rail receiving channel configured to engage with the mounting arm.

4. The mount according to claim 1, further comprising a cap to be attached to the upper end of the rod for securing the rod to the accessory mount clamp.

5. The mount according to claim 1, further comprising a cotter key configured to extend through a hole formed in the rod and fix the accessory mount clamp to the spacer, thereby fixing the accessory mount clamp to the mount lug.

6. The mount according to claim 5, further comprising a fixing pin for securing the cotter key to the rod.

7. The mount according to claim 1, wherein the accessory mount clamp is a monolith.

8. The mount according to claim 1, wherein the accessory mount clamp is made from a separate part.

9. The mount according to claim 1, wherein the mount arm is configured to attach a holder accessory for supporting a surgical bag.

10. The mount according to claim 1, wherein the accessory mount clamp extends at least partially around the mount lug.

Images