Student-invented Heart Surgery Device (IMAGE) Johns Hopkins University Caption Biomedical engineering undergraduates at Johns Hopkins have invented a new way to close the chest after heart surgery. It uses polymer cable ties threaded through the ribs in place of steel wires that are used to pierce the breastbone in most operations today. Credit Will Kirk/JHU Usage Restrictions None License Licensed content Disclaimer: AAAS and EurekAlert! are not responsible for the accuracy of news releases posted to EurekAlert! by contributing institutions or for the use of any information through the EurekAlert system.