The procedure opens up the entire ribcage and can give medics access a patient’s heart in 60-90 seconds
Clamshell
incision
1
Incision is made across the ribcage, slicing through skin and muscles. The chest is then prised open, like a clamshell. This technique is a last-ditch move, reserved for victims of the most lethal shootings and stabbings
Rib spreaders
Heart
Open chest
along incision
2
The heart and lungs are revealed, giving medics a chance to reduce pressure from internal bleeding, stem the flow to wounds, or put a stitch on the heart itself. It is a last chance to bring a dying patient back to life
The procedure opens up the entire ribcage and can
give medics access a patient’s heart in 60-90 seconds
Rib spreaders
Heart
Clamshell
incision
Open chest
along incision
1
Incision is made across the ribcage, slicing through skin and muscles. The chest is then prised open, like a clamshell. This technique is a last-ditch move, reserved for victims of the most lethal shootings and stabbings
2
The heart and lungs are revealed, giving medics a chance to reduce pressure from internal bleeding, stem the flow to wounds, or put a stitch on the heart itself. It is a last chance to bring a dying patient back to life