An interdisciplinary team of Libin Cardiovascular Institute members led by AHFMR Investigators Dr. Paul Fedak, Cardiac Surgeon, and, Dr. Kathryn King, nurse researcher, are on the verge of revolutionizing cardiac surgery. A brand new procedure developed at the Institute uses Kryptonite™ adhesive, a biocompatible polymer, to bring together the breastbone after sternotomy. "We can now heal the breastbone in hours instead of weeks. Patients can make a full recovery after surgery and get back to full physical activities in days instead of months," reports Dr. Fedak.

The possibilities of having cardiac surgery patients be off of all pain killers within days has resulted in immense international interest. In response, Dr. Fedak has traveled extensively training surgeons across the globe in his new technique. The potential savings to global healthcare systems resulting from fewer prescriptions and, in particular, shorter hospital stays could result in hundreds of millions of dollars in savings annually.

Coverage of this story has been picked up by international media ranging from ABC News and The US Daily to the Zimbabwe Star and the Times of India. To read additional coverage including video news clips, visit our blog.

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