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An effective device to keep the sternum open
T Kaneda1, M Aoshima, N Ishigami
1Department of Cardiovascular Surgery, Shizuoka General Hospital, Japan.
Insights
This study introduces disposable syringe stents for delayed sternal closure after cardiothoracic surgery. These cost-effective stents effectively maintain sternal opening, aiding treatment and preventing complications.
Area of Science:
- Cardiothoracic Surgery
- Biomedical Engineering
- Medical Devices
Background:
- Delayed sternal closure is crucial in cardiothoracic surgery for managing complications like heart failure, arrhythmias, and bleeding.
- Existing methods for maintaining sternal patency may have limitations in terms of cost, ease of use, or efficacy.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the feasibility and effectiveness of using disposable syringe-derived stents for maintaining delayed sternal closure.
- To assess the mechanical properties and stability of these novel stents in a clinical context.
Main Methods:
- Development of stents from readily available disposable syringes.
- Assessment of stent strength, resistance to physical therapy impacts, and stability during patient movement.
- Evaluation of the stent's ability to prevent complications such as decubitus ulcers.
Main Results:
- The disposable syringe stents exhibited sufficient strength and stability for maintaining sternal separation.
- Stents showed resistance to mechanical stress from pulmonary physical therapy and patient mobility.
- The proposed method proved effective in preventing decubitus ulcer formation.
Conclusions:
- Disposable syringe stents offer an inexpensive, straightforward, and effective solution for delayed sternal closure in cardiothoracic procedures.
- This innovative approach facilitates patient recovery and management of post-operative complications.
Abstract:
Delayed sternal closure following cardiothoracic surgery facilitates the treatment of heart failure and arrhythmias caused by sternal closure, and also allows access to treat uncontrollable bleeding. The present study examines the use of stents made from disposable syringes for keeping the sternum open. The syringes demonstrated good strength, as well as resistance to tapping during pulmonary physical therapy and stability against body movement necessary to prevent the formation of decubitus ulcers. Thus, the proposed stent provides an inexpensive, easy, and effective method for keeping the sternum open.