Sternal closure using semirigid fixation with thermoreactive clips

Sternomy represents the standard approach to the heart and great vessels in most cardiothoracic procedures. Closure of this incision is simple; however, healing complications such as dehiscence, osteomyelitis, mediastinitis, and superficial wound infection or fistula may occur. We describe an alternative technique for sternal closure using semirigid fixation with thermoreactive clips.