Early Surgical Reconstruction of Sternum with Longitudinal Rigid Polymer Plating after Acute Chest Trauma.

PURPOSE: The surgical management of the patients with traumatic sternal fractures remains controversial. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effectiveness of an early surgical reconstruction of a displaced sternal fracture utilizing longitudinal rigid polymer fixation in the settings of an acute chest trauma.

METHODS: To perform the sternal fixation, we utilized a longitudinal rigid plating system. The plate is made of polyether ether ketone (PEEK), an organic thermoplastic polymer.

RESULTS: We used the entire length of the plate on each side of the fracture, secured in multiple places with 6-8 screws. Once the plates have been fully secured we tighten all the screws with a screwdriver. We demonstrated that the method minimizes pain and prevents the development of pulmonary complications.

CONCLUSION: This technique provides cosmetically acceptable results, minimizing risk of sternal nonunion, and decreases length of hospitalization.