Description of a Reusable Device for the Temporary Stenting of the Open Sternum

Abstract

Background: Myocardial oedema, non-surgical bleeding and the use of mechanical assist devices following major heart surgery sometimes prevent primary closure of the sternum. Method: We describe a reusable sterile device for temporarily stenting the open sternum for safety. Results: The sternal stent was used in 32 patients for a mean time of 2 days. We observed no mediastinitis and no wound-healing disorders. A secondary closure of the sternum was performed in 28 patients. Conclusion: We present a device for sternal stenting that is reusable, easy to apply and allows a good handling of the criticaly ill patient due to its extreme stability.

Key words

Open sternum - Reusable stenting device - Cardiac operation

References

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