Transverse sternal plating in secondary sternal reconstruction: Single-center clinical experience

Abstract

Objectives: This study reviews five-years’ experience of transverse sternal plating in secondary sternal reconstruction in our clinic.

Materials and methods: We retrospectively reviewed our experience with transverse sternal plating using a titanium sternal plate system between January 2015 and December 2019. During this period, a total of 31 sternal plating operations for secondary sternal closure after cardiac surgery were performed.

Results: During the five years of the study, 31 patients underwent sternal plating. There were 20 males and 11 females in the group. The average age was 65.4±10.2 years with a body mass index (BMI) of 27.5±2.9 kg/m² . Twenty-six (83.9%) were diabetics, 23 (74.2%) active smokers, 11 (35.5%) had chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and two (6.5%) had renal failure.

Conclusion: Titanium plate fixation is an effective method to stabilize complicated sternal dehiscence. It is a simple and safe technique without risks. More comprehensive research is required to address the indications, benefits, and complications of sternal plating.

The author declared no conflicts of interest with respect to the authorship and/or publication of this article.

The author received no financial support for the research and/or authorship of this article.