What is a Sternal Brace?
A sternal brace (also called a sternal support device or sternal orthosis) is a medical device designed to support and protect the sternum (breastbone), especially after surgery like a sternotomy (where the chest is opened for procedures like heart surgery).
It stabilizes the chest, prevents movement that could stress the healing sternum, and helps relieve pain during recovery.
Features of a Sternal Brace
- Chest Stabilization
- Provides firm but gentle pressure across the chest.
- Prevents excessive chest wall movement during activities like coughing, sneezing, or breathing deeply.
- Adjustable Straps
- Straps with Velcro or buckle closures allow patients to adjust the tightness for comfort and fit.
- Breathable and Soft Material
- Often made from lightweight, hypoallergenic, breathable fabric to allow air circulation and prevent skin irritation.
- Some include padding to enhance comfort.
- Contoured, Anatomical Design
- Shaped to fit naturally around the chest and ribcage without obstructing breathing.
- Elasticity
- Many designs include some elastic components to allow controlled, limited chest expansion — supporting healing without completely restricting breathing.
- Posture Support
- Some models provide back and shoulder support to maintain upright posture, which also reduces sternum stress.
- Radiolucent (X-ray Friendly)
- Some braces are made with materials that allow X-rays without needing to remove the brace.
- Lightweight and Low-Profile
- Designed to be discreet under clothing, encouraging longer daily wear.
Uses of a Sternal Brace
- Post-Sternotomy Recovery
- After open-heart surgeries (like bypass surgery or valve replacement), a sternal brace supports the sternum while it heals.
- Sternal Fracture or Instability
- Helps stabilize fractured or displaced sternum bones due to trauma.
- Post-Cardiac Surgery Coughing Support
- Reduces pain and protects the healing site when the patient coughs or sneezes (coughing can cause the sternum to separate without support).
- Prevention of Sternal Dehiscence
- Dehiscence = separation of the healing sternum. A brace helps prevent this serious complication.
- Assisting Deep Breathing Exercises
- Supports the chest while allowing patients to perform safe deep breathing and avoid lung complications like pneumonia.
- Postural Correction
- Encourages proper spinal and chest posture to minimize pressure on the sternum.
- Pain Relief
- Reduces pain associated with chest movement after surgery or injury.
In Short:
A sternal brace is a vital recovery tool after chest surgeries or injuries — it protects, stabilizes, reduces pain, and helps healing without totally restricting breathing.
