title: Routine sternal closure using six overlapping figure-of-8 wires.
abstract: Contemporary cardiac surgery patients have an increased incidence of risk factors that adversely affect sternal healing. We recommend routine closure of all sternotomy incisions using six overlapping figure-of-8 wire sutures. This augmented closure is simple and effective in counteracting all forces that would delay or disrupt sternal union.
authors.affiliation: Division of Cardiothoracic Surgery, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, Missouri 63110, USA.
authors.forename: K D
authors.initials: KD
authors.lastname: Murray
authors.forename: M K
authors.initials: MK
authors.lastname: Pasque
mesh_terms: D001864:Bone Wires; D006801:Humans; D008722:Methods; D013249:Sternum / Q000601:surgery*