Sternal talon offers a solution for secondary sternum osteosynthesis in patients with nonunion.

BACKGROUND: Median sternotomy may be associated with postoperative complications such as nonunion after conventional metal wire closure. The Sternal Talon device (KLS Martin, Jacksonville, FL) has recently been introduced as an alternative for osteosynthesis after median sternotomy and may also be beneficial for patients with persistent sternal nonunion.

METHODS: A consecutive series of 24 patients underwent Sternal Talon repair for sternal nonunion or acute mediastinitis, or both, after sternal wire closure. Patient data--including demographics, surgical history, and indication for operation, as well as outcomes--were obtained and analyzed by retrospective chart review.

RESULTS: The average patient age was 61.3 years and 23 patients were men (95.8%). The most common median sternotomy procedure was coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG) in 19 patients (79.2%). Secondary closure using the Sternal Talon was indicated for sternal nonunion or infection, or both, in all patients. Eight patients underwent simultaneous muscle flap procedures during the placement of the Sternal Talon (33.3%). Sternal union was eventually achieved in 23 of 24 patients (95.8%). Subsequent reoperation was required in 4 patients (16.7%).

CONCLUSIONS: The data presented suggest that the osteosynthesis using the Sternal Talon device is a safe and effective modality for treating symptomatic sternal nonunion or acute dehiscence associated with infection (mediastinitis.).