Reinforcing the conventional sternal closure.

Zurbrügg, H R; Freestone, T; Bauer, M; Hetzer, R · Ann Thorac Surg · 2000

case_report · Level V

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Abstract

Sternal infection is a devastating complication of heart surgery. It may be the result of unstable osteosynthesis, caused by the sternal wires cutting into the cortical layers, which results in tension loss and gap formation. We describe a technique that prevents the cerclages from cutting into the sternal plates and covers the sternum with a well-capillarized barrier of major pectoralis muscle.

Medical subject headings