Oblique chondrotomy alone for repair of neglected cleft sternum in adulthood

摘要: Abstract Objectives Cleft sternum is an infrequent anomaly which typically drags parents' attention since birth with subsequent surgical repair in early years of life but few cases ask for consultation at adulthood. We report 3 during the last 10 whom we use only a release oblique osteochondrotomy incision to primary cleft without need prosthetic material or bone graft. Methods A retrospective descriptive study three congenital complete surgically repaired between 2004 and 2014 at cardiothoracic surgery department, Assiut University, Egypt. Surgery was done through vertical midline incision, removal redundant skin, sternal edges were defined. Pectoralis muscle flap created on both sides. sliding cartilage second fourth costal cartilages, bars from sides advanced meet followed by approximation stainless steel sutures appropriate size. Results Mean ages have operated 17.6 years ± SD 1.52. All patients recovered smoothly, extubation operating room no postoperative mechanical ventilation. Chest wall movement stable completely. Patients discharged 4th – 6th days postoperatively according pain tolerance. Cosmetic results acceptable all patients. Chronic pain/neuralgia not reported 2 follow up period. Conclusions propose simple technique adulthood grafts. In comparison previous techniques, it offers theoretical advantage restoring anatomy risk infection prosthesis hazards