Total sternectomy for malignant disease

From 1972 to 1978, six total sternectomies for malignant disease of the sternum were carried out. The clinical data are summarized and the surgical technique is described. After sternectomy, the area of chest wall resection was repaired by suturing a sheet of silicone rubber to the edges of the defect and chest wall stability was assured by using one or two stainless steel struts. Finally the defect was covered with methylmethacrylate prepared and applied inthe operative field. The prosthetic material was shaped until curing by polymerization was complete. We discuss the advantages of this type of reconstruction, the technical details, the use of antibiotics, the surgical drainage, and the need for biopsy prior to carrying out a total sternectomy.