[Our first experience with rigid sternal fixation]

Area of Science:

• Cardiovascular Surgery
• Thoracic Surgery
• Biomedical Engineering

Background:

• Sternal dehiscence is a serious complication following median sternotomy, often occurring years after initial surgery.
• Traditional sternal closure methods can lead to instability, necessitating alternative fixation techniques.

Observation:

• A 61-year-old male patient presented with complete sternal dehiscence 8 years post-aortocoronary bypass.
• The SternaLock system was employed for rigid osteosynthesis of the sternum.

Findings:

• The SternaLock system provided rigid fixation for sternal osteosynthesis.
• The procedure involved a specific implantation methodology and technique.
• Discussion focused on the advantages of rigid fixation and risk factors for sternal instability.

Implications:

• Rigid osteosynthesis using the SternaLock system represents a viable option for managing complex sternal dehiscence.
• Understanding risk factors is crucial for preventing and treating postoperative sternal instability.
• This case highlights advancements in surgical techniques for sternal reconstruction.