SuperCable^® Polymer Iso-Elastic™ Sternotomy Closure System

A Better Way, For Better Outcomes

The “Iso-Elastic” property of the polymer SuperCable provides “dynamic compression” across the sternal halves to better accommodate the physiologic loads acting on the healing sternum.  This Iso-elastic property also acts as a “shock absorber” on the sternum, helping to neutralize loads caused by coughing, sneezing and patient movement, thus reducing the chance of cut-through and loss of fixation.  Additionally, the broader footprint of the double-strand cable can help to minimize cut-through into soft bone. The improved fixation offered by SuperCable provides the opportunity for more rapid and reliable bone healing, more rapid post-op recovery and reduced patient complications and readmissions.

In vitro testing shows that the Iso-elastic SuperCable provides substantial sternotomy closure force after cyclic loading associated with forces expected during coughing and sneezing, whereas monofilament wires and braided metal cables both showed significant loss of fixation closure force (see test reports and test video below). This superior stability offered by SuperCable offers the potential to reduce post-operative pain and bleeding, along with other complications associated with median sternotomy.

Additionally, the cable’s integrated titanium locking clasp allows for simple re-tensioning, and is of a low profile design that minimizes the potential for post-operative palpability.

Finally, the polymer cable can be quickly cut with a scalpel for fast re-entry in emergent situations.

Titanium Locking Mechanism Close-Up

SuperCable…offering a better way to achieve better outcomes for your patients.

The cable tensioning instrument includes a torque gauge for consistent cable tension.

An atraumatic Curved Mini Passer provides for passage of the Iso-Elastic cable through the intercostal spaces.

Stability Testing

Anatomical sternum models divided along their midline, and fixed with four SuperCables, seven No. 5 stainless steel surgical wires, or four stainless steel sternal cables. Following cyclic loading at 1 KN, the sternum models fixed with monofilament wire and with braided metal cables exhibited “cut-through” and loss of fixation.

Wire construct – Fixation Lost

Metal Braided Cable Construct – Fixation Lost

SuperCable Construct – Stable Fixation

Testing

Videos

Sternotomy Closure with SuperCable® Iso-Elastic Polymer Cables

Testing

Cable Passing and Tensioning Technique

Patents
US Patent Nos. 6,589,246, 7,207,090, 8,469,967, and 9,107,720. Europe Patent Nos. 1,389,940, 1,781,961 and 2,432,401. Japan Patent Nos. 4,829,236 and 5,938,095. Turkey Patent Nos. TR201309922T4 and TR201405440T4. Additional US and world patents pending.