Posthorax
STERNUM SUPPORT VEST
The Posthorax sternum support vest works like a smart cast. Scientifically developed and designed it is the only product on the market to provide complete stability for the sternum halves until the bone fracture is healed while allowing the precise amount of flexibility required for comfortable breathing.
For ladies, there is an option of adding a Posthorax support bra. It prevents the weight of the breasts from creating a pull on the sternal wound.
Front
Side
Back
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Ergonomically designed for men and women.
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Worn day and night for 6-8 weeks while the sternum bone is healing.
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Provides constant support for the sternum bone. When fitted properly it will feel like a gentle hug.
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Worn directly on the skin or over a shirt.
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Washable at home on low settings (not suitable for hospital laundry)
If Posthorax is not provided by your hospital you can purchase a vest privately by clicking here
REDUCING RISKS
Minimizing Risk Of Pulmonary problems
Time spent on the heart-lung machine causes fluid deposits in the thoracic tissues and excess mucus in the lungs. deep breathing is necessary to resorb the fluids and loosen the mucus. The mucus must be eliminated by coughing which causes pain in the area of the chest-wound and bone fracture. The resulting internal forces can impact the bone knitting tissues and cause dehiscence.
The sternum support vest embraces the body with a snug fit while allowing just enough elasticity for regular deep breathing, while it compensates and redistributes all other internal forces. The result is a significant reduction of pain. While the necessary coughing action can take place to clear the lungs, overextension of the thorax is completely avoided
Facilitating Early Mobilization
For purposes of rebuilding cardio-vascular activity and regaining proper pulmonary function, it is vital to start mobilizing patients 2 days after the operation. Sudden motions (due to lack of strength) cause pain and strain on the fracture. They could even cause the healing fracture to break up (dehiscence) or the wires could cut into the bone, both issues could require re-operation. Wearing the support-vest as directed in the user manual gives the patient more confidence, security and freedom to move while the thorax is protected and mechanically stabilized at all times.
Minimizing Risk Of Pulmonary problems
Time spent on the heart-lung machine causes fluid deposits in the thoracic tissues and excess mucus in the lungs. deep breathing is necessary to resorb the fluids and loosen the mucus. The mucus must be eliminated by coughing which causes pain in the area of the chest-wound and bone fracture. The resulting internal forces can impact the bone knitting tissues and cause dehiscence.
The sternum support vest embraces the body with a snug fit while allowing just enough elasticity for regular deep breathing, while it compensates and redistributes all other internal forces. The result is a significant reduction of pain. While the necessary coughing action can take place to clear the lungs, overextension of the thorax is completely avoided
High Risk Patients
Diabetes, obesity, smoking and COPD are risk factors known to slow down healing and increase the risk of sternal complications in patients after open heart surgery. The Posthorax vest greatly enhances wound healing, speeds up the healing process and reduces the duration of hospital stay. Patients can return to a high quality of life.
Posthorax is manufactured in Austria. Materials, craftsmanship and quality control are continuously selected with the highest standards available.
The shell is made from 100% highest quality long-staple cotton.
Cushions consist of 100% PU foam.
The bra is made from 90% cotton, 10% spandex.
Sternum fracture
Patented support cushions run parallel to the sternum fracture
Adjustable side bands ensure correct fit
Posthorax
Biomechanical Test Results
Below are results from a biomechanical study on the Posthorax sternum support vest. We created a thorax model using sensors to test how much pressure was absorbed with each product as shown here.
We tested the pressure on the thorax when breathing, deep breathing, coughing and moving. For the full study with info about the thorax model and more please click HERE
Provides real stabilization
Not effective!
Pressures not absorbed
