Between 1987 and 1994, we applied a prospective study using absorbable loop sutures (polydioxanone [PDS]) for sternal closure in 92 consecutive patients. Mean age was 7.5 years (range 4 days to 16 years). The reason of sternotomy was Tetralogy of Fallot in 54 cases, ventricular septal defect in 10 cases, atrial septal defect in 28 cases, atrial septal defect+ventricular septal defect in 7 cases, atrial septal defect + pulmonary stenosis in 2 cases and cor triatriatum dexter in one case. No cases of sternal dehiscence were observed. Only two cases of sternal infection were observed. Over all perioperative mortality was 1.8%. Polydioxanone suture appears to be a safe alternative to steel wire closure in pediatric patients undergoing cardiac surgery.