Use of a new exsanguination tourniquet in internal fixation of distal radius fractures.

We describe our experience using a new device that results in a bloodless field in open repair of distal radius fractures. The device, an exsanguinating tourniquet (HemaClear model/40, OHK Medical Devices, Haifa, Israel), replaces the traditional methods of limb elevation, Esmarch bandaging, pneumatic tourniquet pressurizing and the associated components. HemaClear/40 is an elastic silicon ring with a tubular elastic sleeve rolled onto it. The device has attached straps that, when pulled, unroll the sleeve, rolling the ring mesially on the limb. The pressure exerted by rolling HemaClear/40 is supra-systolic thereby exsanguinating the limb and occluding the arterial inflow. Our experience in 49 patients demonstrated quick application, superior exsanguination and that the device could be placed on the forearm instead of the upper arm. No side effects or complications were noted. In our opinion, the fact that HemaClear/40 is a sterile, single-patient device makes it superior over the traditional technology.