TORONTO — Researchers at the University of Calgary have pioneered a quick method for mending the breastbone after it is intentionally broken to provide access for open-heart surgery.

The technique uses a state-of-the-art adhesive called Kryptonite that rapidly bonds to bone and accelerates the recovery process.

Cardiac surgeon Dr. Paul Fedak says use of the glue means a patient's breastbone can heal within hours instead of weeks after open-heart surgery.

Fedak says more than 20 patients have received the bone-bonding technique in Calgary as part of a pilot study.

Patients report far less pain than with traditional breastbone-mending methods and a substantially reduced need for strong medications like narcotics.

The researchers have established an international study with the goal of applying the technique to more than 500 open-heart surgery patients over the next year or two.