D86. A Novel Sternal Suturing Technique: Comparison with Post Sternotomy Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery Closure METHODS

PURPOSE: Complications following sternotomy are devastating and are associated with significant morbidity, mortality, and healthcare costs. Although rigid sternal fixation facilitates sternal union, there is hesitancy over use of hardware in cases of infection or microbial colonization. Thus, we introduce our novel sternal closure technique with absorbable interosseous monocortical horizontal mattress sutures using 1 PDS and/or 1 Vicryl. METHODS: A total of 120 patients between December 2007 and August 2023 with extensive sternal wounds requiring closure by plastic surgeons at a single institution were included. Variables of interest were obtained via retrospective chart review. Univariate analysis was performed utilizing JMP Pro. RESULTS: 50% of patients who ultimately underwent closure with interosseous sternal sutures required 3 or more debridements after their initial sternotomy, compared to 16% who underwent closure without plates and 11% with plates. After closure with interosseous sternal sutures, 1 patient developed dehiscence and deep sternal wound infection. All 8 patients receiving the new technique achieved functional sternal union within the follow-up period. CONCLUSION: This proof-of-concept study introduces our novel sternal closure technique. Single institution experience demonstrates that this is a safe alternative to rigid sternal fixation in patients who are contraindicated to place permanent hardware.