A newly published clinical study has shown evidence that the Arthrex FiberTape® sternal closure system is a superior method for sternal closure versus metal wires1. Zain Khalpey, MD (Scottsdale, AZ), performed the retrospective study, published in the Journal of Clinical Medicine and the complete paper can be found here.
The FiberTape sternal closure system is a completely nonmetallic, suture-based alternative to metal wires traditionally used to close the sternum after cardiac surgery. It is implanted similarly to metal wires but provides a less invasive, strong, reproducible compression, supporting sternal stabilization.
“The [FiberTape] sternal closure system demonstrates significant advantages over conventional steel wire closure in cardiac surgery patients, particularly those at high risk for sternal complications,” the study’s conclusion read.
The research method examined sternal closure outcomes of 300 patients (150 with FiberTape sternal closure, 150 with metal wires). FiberTape sternal closure demonstrated significant advantages over metal wires in the following key aspects:
Dr. Khalpey and his team also compared sternal closure times for both groups and addressed financial considerations. Closure times in the FiberTape sternal closure group were significantly shorter (11 minutes versus 19 minutes), and his surgical team continued to get faster with the system over the course of the 150 cases.
The paper also points out a cost savings were achieved with the FiberTape sternal closure group by eliminating the need for sternal protection adjuncts (such as chest support vests and negative-pressure dressings) necessary for obese patients in the wire group.
“This is clinical evidence we are very excited to share with the cardiothoracic community,” said Arthrex Senior Product Manager Steven Rolenc.
1 Khalpey Z, Kumar UA, Aslam U, et al. Improving sternal closure outcomes in cardiac surgery: polyethylene suture tapes vs. steel wires. J Clin Med. 2025;14(1):277. doi:10.3390/jcm14010277
