We describe a simple technique to protect an axillo-coronary bypass graft with a stretch, thin-walled 6-mm polytetrafluoroethylene graft with removable rings.

Sternomy represents the standard approach to the heart and great vessels in most cardiothoracic procedures. Closure of this incision is simple; however, healing complications such as dehiscence, osteomyelitis, mediastinitis, and superficial wound infection or fistula may occur. We describe an alternative technique for sternal closure using semirigid fixation with thermoreactive clips.