Alternative sternum closure technique to traditional method in open heart surgery

Objectives: Sternal dehiscence is a rare but serious complication seen in postoperative period in cardiac surgery. A good closure of the sternum is essential to prevent sternal dehiscence. Closure of sternum by steel wires is accepted as conventional sternal closure technique. In this study, we aimed to present an alternative sternal closure technique and its results with steel wires in our clinic. Methods: The data of 115 patients who underwent open heart surgery between January 2017 and January 2018 in our clinic were evaluated retrospectively. Sternal closure of all patients was performed with our alternative technique. Risk factors for sternal dehiscence and postoperative data of patients were evaluated. Results: In the postoperative period, superficial sternal wound infection occurred at a rate of 4.3%. None of the patients developed deep sternal infection (mediastinitis) and sternal dehiscence. Four patients had mortality and were not related to sternal complications. Sternal stability and primary wound healing were achieved in 106 patients (92.1%) without any problem. Conclusion: We think that our sternal closure technique is an effective and easily applicable technique to prevent sternal complications