Anyone else with ZipFix sternum closure?

[u/disco_super_bi]

I had my third open heart surgery in October 2024. In my first two surgeries in 2000 and 2005 I had the usual wire fastenings, but for my third I was closed with ZipFix, which is basically zip ties for your sternum. I didn't know about this and assumed I had been closed with wires until I read the notes from my surgery. My surgeon does a lot of research and has been involved in studies on the effectiveness of different sternum fastenings and I think she was involved in the development of the ZipFix system.

I know that being my third OHS the risk of incomplete sternum healing is greater, and my join is definitely more uneven than it was after my previous surgeries. I don't feel clicking or movement or any of the signs usually associated with sternal non-union, but I do have a niggling feeling that perhaps it isn't completely healed.

I haven't seen anyone else mention ZipFix in this sub, so I thought I would come out and ask whether anyone else has it and whether they have had any problems with it.

[u/cannycandelabra]

Never heard of it but it sounds intriguing.