Repair of a floating sternum with autologous rib grafts and polylactide bioabsorbable struts in an 18-year-old male.

Failed regeneration of costal cartilage after open repair of pectus chest wall deformities can result in a floating sternum. A floating sternum can be repaired by insertion of a rib graft between the rib and sternum, and stabilization with a metal strut. The metal implant is usually removed with a second operation.