[Closure of median sternotomy incision with EPTFE sutures]

EPTFE (CV-0) suture was utilized for closure of median sternotomy incision in 100 patients under 6 years of age who underwent open heart surgery. During 3 years follow up, except for one dislocation of sternum, all patients have healed without complication. EPTFE suture is swanged to a needle that has the same diameter as the thread, which reduces bleeding from the needle hole. It is radiologically lucent, and therefore does not disrupt chest X-ray, angiography or MRI investigations, in contrast to sternal wires. In addition, in the case of life threatening postoperative complication, EPTFE suture allows rapid and simple access to the heart, without the need to cut wires. We concluded that EPTFE suture can be utilized for closure of median sternotomy in patients under the age of six, without an increased risk of postoperative or long-term complications.