Igor E Konstantinov1, Pankaj Saxena. 1. Department of Cardiothoracic Surgery, Sir Charles Gairdner Hospital, University of Western Australia, Perth, Australia. konstantinov.igor@alumni.mayo.edu
Abstract
BACKGROUND: Sternal dehiscence following midline sternotomy is associated with significant morbidity and mortality in high-risk patients. METHODS: A novel simple technique of sternal stabilization after midline sternotomy by interlocking wires was introduced in high-risk patients with morbid obesity, diabetes, osteoporosis, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, bilateral internal thoracic artery harvesting, or various combinations of the above. RESULTS: A sternal stabilization by interlocking wires was performed in 25 consecutive high-risk patients. Stable sternum was achieved in all patients despite multiple risk factors. CONCLUSION: We describe a simple technique of interlocking wires that provides excellent stabilization of the sternum after midline stenotomy in high-risk patients. This technique utilizes the benefit of figure-eight wires, provides the continuity of the weave and effectively prevents cutting of the wires through the sternum without compromising its blood supply.
BACKGROUND: Sternal dehiscence following midline sternotomy is associated with significant morbidity and mortality in high-risk patients. METHODS: A novel simple technique of sternal stabilization after midline sternotomy by interlocking wires was introduced in high-risk patients with morbid obesity, diabetes, osteoporosis, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, bilateral internal thoracic artery harvesting, or various combinations of the above. RESULTS: A sternal stabilization by interlocking wires was performed in 25 consecutive high-risk patients. Stable sternum was achieved in all patients despite multiple risk factors. CONCLUSION: We describe a simple technique of interlocking wires that provides excellent stabilization of the sternum after midline stenotomy in high-risk patients. This technique utilizes the benefit of figure-eight wires, provides the continuity of the weave and effectively prevents cutting of the wires through the sternum without compromising its blood supply.