Chest reconstruction using a custom-designed polyethylene 3D implant after resection of the sternal manubrium

Resection of manubrium or body of the sternum is associated with a necessity of chest wall reconstruction. Large sternal defects require the use of different types of implants to ensure acceptable esthetic effect for the patient and chest stabilization.

The purpose of this case report is to present a novel method of reconstruction of manubrium removed due to renal cancer metastasis to the sternum.

We present the case of a patient, who had underwent right nephrectomy for clear cell kidney cancer, diagnosed with a metastatic tumor in the sternum resulting in destruction of manubrium. The patient undergone tumor resection with primary reconstruction with an individual prosthesis. Sternal defect was filled with a personalized, computed tomography scan-based 3D-milled implant made of polyethylene.

Sternal reconstruction was uneventful. The patient endured surgery well, and has been under surveillance in outpatient clinic, without any respiration disorders, implant movement or local recurrence.

Custom-designed sternal implants created by 3D technique constitute an interesting alternative for previous methods of filling defects after resection of a tumor in this location.