Rib Cage Stabilisation With 3D-Printed Polyethylene Sternal Prosthesis Post-Sternotomy Mediastinitis

Background Post-sternotomy mediastinitis (PSM) is a serious complication of median sternotomy. It is associated with a high mortality rate. Evidence based management recommends debridement followed by closure with vascularised flaps. When large areas of resections are performed, the use of sternal prosthesis could be considered to ensure chest wall stability and cosmesis. Method We report an individualised three-dimensional (3D)-printed high-density polyethylene (HDPE) sternum implantation in a patient with a 10 cm chest wall defect. Results Chest wall reconstruction was uncomplicated and the patient tolerated the procedure well without cardiorespiratory compromise. Postoperatively, the wound healed well and the chest wall remained stable at outpatient clinic follow-up. Conclusion Three-dimensional-printed HDPE prosthesis offers an alternative implant option for closing large chest wall defects for eroded sternum after cure of mediastinitis.