title: Routine sternal closure using interlocking multitwisted wires.
abstract: We describe a method of sternal closure that enhances sternal stabilization and minimizes bleeding from sternal fractures caused by retraction. With the technique of interlocking multitwisted wires the initial placement of the wire sutures is the same as in traditional sternal closure, however the twisting technique is improved, with multiple twisting including four twisted strands. Our method of closure is effective, simple and quick to perform and has several advantages over conventional or figure-of-eight closure. This closure is also biomechanically more rigid than conventional or figure-of-eight closure. We therefore recommend routine sternal closure using interlocking multitwisted wires.
authors.affiliation: Department of Cardiothoracic Surgery, Leeds General Infirmary, UK.
authors.forename: A R
authors.initials: AR
authors.lastname: Casha
authors.forename: S S
authors.initials: SS
authors.lastname: Ashraf
authors.forename: P H
authors.initials: PH
authors.lastname: Kay
authors.forename: G J
authors.initials: GJ
authors.lastname: Cooper
mesh_terms: D001864:Bone Wires; D006801:Humans; D012680:Sensitivity and Specificity; D013249:Sternum / Q000601:surgery*; D013536:Suture Techniques; D019616:Thoracic Surgical Procedures / Q000295:instrumentation* / Q000379:methods