Rigid fixation of the sternum using a new coupled titanium transverse plate fixation system.

Restoration of sternal integrity after median sternotomy for cardiac interventions better ensures optimal postoperative pulmonary function and minimizes overall morbidity. Sternal dehiscence or nonunion mitigates against such a successful outcome. Under such circumstances, if enough viable and uninfected sternum remains, an anatomic reduction should be attempted.

Missile embolism to the pulmonary artery: case report and pitfalls of management.

Missile embolism to the pulmonary artery is a rare event. We present a complicated case of missile embolism from the inferior vena cava to the pulmonary artery. The case illustrates the potential pitfalls in the management of these patients.

Left pleural effusion after coronary artery bypass decreases with a supplemental pleural drain.

Background: This prospective study was undertaken to determine the incidence of symptomatic left pleural effusion after coronary artery bypass grafting, and to determine if routine drainage of the pleural cavity with a supplemental flexible drain reduces this incidence.

Methods: The clinical course of study patients was prospectively recorded during the initial hospitalization and at 6-weeks after surgery. All patients had a mediastinal and a left pleural tube, which were removed on the 1st postoperative day.