Novel Adhesive For Use In Sternal Fixation and Application

Median sternotomy is the standard approach in heart surgery. Over 1.5M operations are performed worldwide annually; 45K in Canada. Wires are used post-operatively to close the sterna, leading to instability, micro-motion and pain. Alternative techniques lack effectiveness or are cost prohibitive. Glass polyalkenoate cements (GPCs) are used in restorative dentistry, orthodontics and ear, nose and throat surgeries. Our group has re-engineered a dental GPC specifically for use as an adhesive for sternal fixation based around a novel, patented bioactive glass phase which contains strontium and zinc, which can be applied during sternal wiring to minimize complications. This approach, supported by the scientific literature, will reduce post-operative complications by inhibiting micro-motion between the dissected sternal halves and restricting bacterial ingress into the wound.

Faculty Supervisor:

Mark Towler

Student:

Daniella Marx

Partner:

Incubate Innovate Network of Canada

Discipline:

Engineering - biomedical

Sector:

Professional, scientific and technical services

University:

Ryerson University