Abstract

Ann Thorac Surg. 2007 Mar;83(3):1162-5

Elastic device facilitating delayed primary closure of sternal wound infection

Price J, Rubens F, Bell M.

Division of Cardiac Surgery, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada.


Abstract:

PURPOSE: Management of the sternal wound after extensive debridement continues to be a resource-intensive problem in cardiac surgery. There are a number of techniques available to achieve definitive closure of these wounds, all of which have limited effectiveness or are associated with serious complications. This article describes the use of a novel elastic system that approximates these wounds gradually, achieving dynamic wound closure. The purpose of this study is to evaluate the efficacy of this system. DESCRIPTION: We report our initial series of 3 patients who underwent dynamic wound closure using a novel elastomer system after debridement for sternal wound infection. EVALUATION: All patients achieved satisfactory healing with a mean duration of 29 days of treatment without additional procedures. CONCLUSIONS: Dynamic wound closure is an effective and feasible method of dealing with the open sternotomy wound after debridement.



For full article, please contact Canica at (800) 705-8312 or (613) 256-0350


Back to main news page