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. We report use of bioabsorbable struts to stabilize rib grafts during repair of a floating sternum in an 18-year-old male with a failed open repair of pectus carinatum. He had an uncomplicated peri-operative course. One year later, the sternum had a normal appearance and was sturdy. A second operation for removal of hardware was not necessary.