[Closure of upper median sternotomy with resorbable polyglycolic acid sutures]

Since 15 years we use absorbable polyglycolic acid sutures (Dexon) for closure of partial median sternotomies. In a consecutive series of 121 refixations, minor superficial wound infections developed in 4 patients. All infections healed completely by local treatment. No major sternal complication occurred. Of 92 patients, who were still living, 82 patients were controlled between 3 and 180 months postoperatively. 80 (98%) sternotomies were consolidated completely; 71 (87%) without any dislocation and 9 (11%) with a small dislocation of the fragments. In 2 cases (2%) an isolated pseudarthrosis of the transverse osteotomy occurred; in both cases the median osteotomy was consolidated completely. In the literature no comparable publication about closure of partial median sternotomies could be found. According to our experiences we consider, that the closure of partial upper sternotomies with polyglycolic acid sutures is as a practical and reliable method.