Steel wires often prove insufficient for closing the sternum in individuals who face a heightened chance of sternal problems. This investigation evaluates an innovative sternal closure technique against standard steel wires to determine its ability to reduce sternal-related issues and deliver superior patient outcomes. Researchers conducted a retrospective review of 300 consecutive patients who underwent cardiac operations via median sternotomy. Among them, 150 individuals had their sternum closed using steel wires, while the other 150 received suture tape closure. Data collected before, during, and after surgery were compared across both patient groups. The suture tape group displayed noticeably fewer sternal wound infections (1% vs. 5%, P = 0.0363) and cases of sternal dehiscence (0% vs. 5%, P = 0.0297). Those treated with suture tapes experienced markedly lower pain levels at 14 and 30 days after the procedure (P = 0.0002 and 0.0071, respectively). Furthermore, the requirement for any additional sternal support devices was completely removed when suture tapes were applied. The time needed to complete sternal closure was also much shorter with suture tapes (11 vs. 19 min, P < 0.0001). Suture tapes were found to be safe, practical, and highly effective for sternal closure. They offered clear benefits over steel wires by reducing the incidence of dehiscence and infection, postoperative wound pain, and the duration of the closure process. These advantages, along with the complete elimination of additional sternal protection measures, could lead to meaningful reductions in treatment costs. Based on our clinical observations, this new sternal closure approach shows considerable promise, although bigger prospective trials will be necessary to establish the best practices for sternal stabilization.
