Stories about Kryptonite are sure to pique interest, and this one has both a "super" and a scientific angle. Canadian researchers are using a super glue called Kryptonite to create a stronger closure of the breastbone for heart patients after open chest surgery. This means faster recovery time, fewer complications and less post-operative pain.
The Kryptonite adhesive bonds quickly and effectively to the breastbone, allowing it to become solid in just hours, shortening the current recovery time of eight weeks by 50 per cent. It provides five to ten times the mechanical strength of the breastbone closure of the standard steel wires, yet takes only about five minutes to complete.
Enhanced bone stability results in fewer complications such as wound infections and bone separation. There have been no associated side effects or complications with Kryptonite after one year of follow-up.
Kryptonite has properties like natural bone and allows for new bone growth.
Patients also experience significantly less pain than with the steel closure, meaning fewer painkillers are required and breathing is much easier and more comfortable, so patients get back to walking and regular activities more quickly.
The Kryptonite procedure was developed by Dr. Paul Fedak, a cardiac surgeon at Foothills Hospital Medical Centre in Calgary, Alberta. It has been used on over 500 patients across Canada and the United States, and a larger clinical trial will now be implemented.
With 1.4 million open chest surgeries performed each year around the world, the procedure has the potential to revolutionize surgical recovery.
Now that's something even Superman would get excited about.
