The Simple Technique of Sternal Closure Using An Absorbable Mesh Plate

Abstract

Background: Several authors have investigated various sternal closure materials and technologies for sternal fixation; nonetheless, the optimal technique for primary sternal closure remains unclear. This study aimed to evaluate the sternal stability of a simple technique using a mesh-type plate (Super Fixorb MX40®; Takiron Co. Ltd., Osaka, Japan), as compared with wire cerclage. Methods: A total of 70 patients who underwent cardiovascular surgery through median sternotomy between July 2019 and May 2020 were included. Two pieces of mesh-type plates were placed under the sternum in combination with wiring. The technique for sternal closure was randomly applied, which was mainly based on the surgeon’s preferences: mesh plate (mesh group: N = 33) or conventional wire cerclage (wire group: N = 37). Sternal displacement was measured using computed tomography at discharge. Results: Pain scale scores and analgesic use on postoperative day 7 were similar between the two groups. However, the displacement in both the anterior-posterior and lateral directions was significantly smaller in the mesh group. Conclusions: The use of the mesh plate device for sternal closure is simple, safe, easy, and potentially reliable without anterior-posterior sternal displacement.