[Complete congenital sternal cleft (author's transl)].

Complete Sternal Cleft is obviously a rare congenital malformation, except as a part of superior celosomy (Cantrell's Syndrome). Such a case is reported, who was operated on eight days after birth. The operation was done by taking off the skin over the pericardium and tightening both hemi-sternum, with non-absorbable material. Short-term and long-term post-operative course was uneventfull. We think positive pressure ventilation is needed only for some days. Results are better and surgery easier when performed shortly after birth.