# Treatment of Sternocutaneous Fistula Due to Cardiac Surgery Using Extracellular Matrix Patch

## TL;DR

This paper discusses a new surgical approach using an extracellular matrix patch to treat rare sternocutaneous fistulas after heart surgery.

## Contribution

The novel use of an extracellular matrix patch (ProxiCor®) in surgical repair of sternocutaneous fistulas is presented.

## Key findings

- Surgical repair using an extracellular matrix patch was successfully applied in three cases.
- The approach combines traditional methods with new materials for better outcomes.
- This method shows potential as a step forward in treating sternocutaneous fistulas.

## Abstract

The incidence of sternal wound complications, such as dehiscences, infections,
and sternocutaneous fistulas, can reach 10%. Sternocutaneous fistulas are
extremely rare, and the only definite therapy is surgical repair. Our experience
taught us that combining a traditional approach with an extracellular matrix
patch might be a step forward in therapy. We described three examples of
surgically reconstructing sternocutaneous fistulas with an extracellular matrix
patch (ProxiCor®).