Sternal wire use

My child had a surgical ASD repair 3 years ago. He has a post operative protrusion & asymmetry of his sternum. Recently, when a chest x-ray was taken, no sternal wires or sutures were present on the x-ray. I have encountered many children with CHD's through support groups over the years & they all have sternal wires or sternal sutures. Is it possible to close the sternum successfully without the use of sternal wires or sutures? I am a bit baffled. Thanks in advance, Jill

[CCF-M.D.-RCJ]

Jill,

Thanks for your question. I had to do some research on this question, so my answer is based only on what I was able to read, not first-hand knowledge.

Non-metallic sternal bands, clips, and glue have all been used with varying success.

Get a copy of your child's records from the surgery, the closure technique will be listed.

Hope that helps.

[4boys4jill]

Clarification~my son did have a full sternotomy. Thank you again, Jill