Sternal Talon for sternal closure in cardiothoracic surgery

Equality considerations

NICE is committed to promoting equality, eliminating unlawful discrimination and fostering good relations between people with particular protected characteristics and others. In producing guidance and advice, NICE aims to comply fully with all legal obligations to: promote race and disability equality and equality of opportunity between men and women, eliminate unlawful discrimination on grounds of race, disability, age, sex, gender reassignment, marriage and civil partnership, pregnancy and maternity (including women post‑delivery), sexual orientation, and religion or belief (these are protected characteristics under the Equality Act 2010).

Sternal Talon may be of benefit to patients at higher risk of complications after cardiothoracic surgeries, such as people with obesity, diabetes and chronic obstructive pulmonary disorder. These conditions become more common with older age. Age and disability are protected characteristics under the Equality Act 2010.