Breastbone opened
PRO Support Vest
- Median sternotomy
- Coronary artery bypass (CABG)
- Aortic and mitral valve replacement
- Aortic surgery
from $335.50
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Which device do I need?
It comes down to how your chest was opened. If the breastbone was divided down the middle, you need the PRO Support Vest. If the surgery went in through the side of the chest — or you have fractured ribs — you need the ThoraxBelt. Chestfix is the universal-fit option wards keep on hand to apply immediately, including after TAVI.
Not sure which applies to you? Call 1300 707 222 with the name of your operation and we will tell you in a minute.
Start from your procedure
Side by side
| PRO Support Vest | ThoraxBelt | Chestfix | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Use it after | Median sternotomy — open-heart surgery | Thoracotomy, lung resection, rib injury | Thoracic surgery, lobectomy, TAVI |
| How it acts | Light anterior–posterior compression on the sternum; rigid chest piece with hyperextension stop | Even circumferential compression across the rib cage | Spreads pain over a wider area of the chest wall |
| Sizing | S–XXL, men’s and women’s fit — measure first | XS–XXL, men’s and women’s fit | Universal — no measuring |
| Price (inc. GST) | $335.50–$390.50 | $58.30–$81.40 | $60.50 |
| Delivery | Typically 1–3 weeks | 5–7 working days | 5–7 business days |
| Hospital packaging | 5 pieces per size, per package | Single units | 1 piece per unit |
| Randomised trial evidence | Four RCTs, 4,800+ patients — see the studies | Not separately trialled | Not separately trialled |
| Typical wear | Day and night, six to eight weeks | As directed through rehabilitation | From immediately after surgery |
Choosing between them
+What is the difference between the ThoraxBelt and the Support Vest?
They address different axes of chest wall movement. The vest holds the divided breastbone still front-to-back, using two cushions either side of the wound and a chest piece that will not flex. The belt compresses the rib cage evenly all the way around, which is what a lateral incision or a fractured rib needs.
+Do I need more than one?
No — one device is chosen for the procedure. Hospitals sometimes hold Chestfix for immediate application because it needs no sizing, then fit a sized vest or belt for the weeks at home.
+Which one is for broken ribs?
The ThoraxBelt. It limits excessive movement of fractured or bruised ribs while still allowing the deep breathing and effective cough that prevent pneumonia and atelectasis.
+Why is only the vest backed by trials?
The randomised programme was designed around sternal complications after median sternotomy, which is the outcome the vest exists to prevent — so that is where the trials were run. The belt and Chestfix are pain-management and stabilisation devices for different indications; we describe them in those terms and do not extend the vest’s trial results to them.
Tell us the operation, we’ll tell you the device
Including the size, and whether it can arrive before your surgery date.