An innovative method is being used to repair the breastbone after it is intentionally broken to provide access to the heart during open-heart surgery.
The technique uses a U.S.-developed adhesive called KryptoniteTM that rapidly bonds to bone and accelerates the recovery process. Currently surgeons still close the chest using sternal wires, the same method that has been used for over 50 years.
Dr. Paul Fedak, a Canadian surgeon from the University of Calgary-Faculty of Medicine, pioneered this technique and has performed this procedure on over 20 patients as part of a pilot study. He aims to apply the technique in over 500 patients across the globe over the next 12 – 24 months.
Patients report substantially less pain and discomfort after surgery and the use of strong pain medication, such as narcotics, is profoundly reduced if not completely eliminated with use of the procedure.
Dr. Paul Fedak will be in Orlando Florida on Mon Nov 16 and Tues Nov 17th 2009.
VISUALS;
- Dr. Paul Fedak can demonstrate how the adhesive is mixed together
- photos of surgeon available upon request
- Some limited B-roll of open heart surgery can be provided
To schedule an interview ,Media Contacts:
Jordanna Heller, Manager, Media Relations, 403.220.2431, medmedia@ucalgary.ca
Marta Cyperling, Media Relations Advisor, 403.210.3835, marta.cyperling@ucalgary.ca