Plain-English translation of NCT06660186 on ClinicalTrials.gov ↗ · Source last updated · Translation generated · How we translate trials
This study doesn't follow the usual testing phases — it may be an observational study or a different type of research.
After open heart surgery, your surgeon needs to close your breastbone (sternum) back together. This trial compares two different methods: using a rigid metal plate system or using stainless steel wires. Researchers want to find out which method works better for patients like you who have additional health conditions that might make healing harder.
Some patients have a harder time healing after heart surgery because of conditions like diabetes, kidney disease, or needing steroid medications. Doctors want to know whether one closing method is safer and more effective than the other for these higher-risk patients.
You likely qualify if…
You likely don't qualify if…
You will be randomly assigned to have your breastbone closed using either the rigid plate system or the steel wire method during your scheduled open heart surgery. Your surgical team will follow standard heart surgery procedures, and your recovery will be monitored like any other open heart surgery patient. The research focuses on comparing how well each closing method works during your normal post-surgery follow-up care.
AI-generated summary from trial data · Aug 12, 2026 · Not medical advice
United States
University Hospitals Cleveland Medical Center
Collaborators
Stryker Nordic
Enrollment target
~250 participants
Started
March 2026
Primary completion
June 2027
Age range
18 Years – 89 Years
Last updated on clinicaltrials.gov in April 2026.
Reach out to the team running this trial. Response times vary — some teams are faster than others.
Central contact
Stacey Mazzurco
University Hospitals
Tell us you're interested and we'll help connect you with the research team. We'll walk you through what to expect first — no email needed to get started.