Title : Biomechanical evaluation of sternal closure stability with and without demineralized bone matrix graft: An FEA study
Abstract:
The use of biologics in sternal closures is underexplored, previous studies suggest biologic augmentation can enhance patient outcomes. This study evaluated the biomechanical performance of two sternal closure techniques; stainless steel wire and titanium plate fixation under various loading conditions, with and without a demineralized bone matrix (DBM) graft, focusing on improvements in sternal stability.
Finite element analysis (FEA) simulated the biomechanical performance of sternum models subjected to clinical loading conditions. Stainless steel wire and titanium plate fixation were tested with and without a 4mm DBM graft. Load scenarios included lateral distraction, shear (parallel to the transverse plane), and torsion. Performance was assessed based on load-to-displacement thresholds (2mm maximum displacement), stiffness, graft gapping, and load distribution, with failure defined as 2mm displacement or slippage at the graft-sternum interface.
