BHIS & C.A.T.S
BHIS & C.A.T.S
CARDIOTHORACIC POST SURGERY CHEST SUPPORTS
Cardiothoracic & Open-Heart Surgery Support Wear
Engineered in collaboration with NHS clinical experts, our specialised post-operative support garments provide crucial sternal stability following open-heart surgery, sternotomy, and cardiac procedures. Designed to reduce wound friction, accommodate chest drains, and support safe recovery.
Post-Surgery Chest Supports & Cardiothoracic Recovery
Innovative clinical support garments developed with NHS experts to provide crucial sternal stability, reduce wound friction, and aid early mobilisation following cardiac surgery. Explore our award-winning BHIS bras and C.A.T.S vests below.
BHIS BRA
• Improves patient comfort
• Improves compliance
• Improves stability of the sternum
C.A.T.S VEST
• NHS supply chain discounts
• Aids respiratory comfort
• Easy to apply with adjustable consistent support
Specialised Support for Cardiac and Sternal Recovery
Recovering from open-heart surgery, bypass procedures, or any operation requiring a median sternotomy demands rigorous attention to physical healing. During the crucial first six weeks post-surgery, protecting the breastbone and managing chest wall tension are vital to preventing complications and ensuring proper bone fusion.
Clinical-Grade Solutions Developed with NHS Experts
To bridge the gap between medical safety and everyday comfort, CUI Wear offers an award-winning range of cardiothoracic support garments designed alongside NHS clinical experts in cardiac surgery and surgical site infection prevention:
- The BHIS Post-Operative Support Bra: Engineered specifically for female patients, focusing on targeted lateral support rather than harsh downward compression. It features external seams, drain compatibility, and multi-hook front adjustments to relieve pressure near the base of the wound.
- The C.A.T.S. (Cardio Adjustable Thoracic Support) Unisex Vest: An innovative, adjustable vest designed for patients requiring stable rib cage and sternum splinting. It includes adjustable shoulder straps, breathable sports mesh back panels, and a unique utility pocket for telemetry wires or drainage equipment.
Why Standard Commercial Underwear Falls Short
Traditional bras and tight commercial compression wear are rarely suitable for the vulnerable post-operative chest. Underwires and downward pressure force tissue directly against the central incision, while tight pullovers require painful overhead stretching. Our dedicated clinical range eliminates these risks through front-fastening designs, skin-friendly external seams, and consistent, adjustable pressure that supports early mobilisation.
Explore Our Recovery Range
Find the right fit for your rehabilitation through our BHIS Bra A-D range, BHIS Bra E-H range, or the unisex C.A.T.S. Vest, with bespoke options also available.
Trusted By
Testimonials
Laks"I wore this C.A.T.S vest during my recovery period following my open-heart surgery. Easy to wear and very comfortable. It gave me the sense of security during my daily walks and regular movements - helping me with my posture supporting my chest, shoulders. High quality fabric & very easy aftercare.
Highly recommend this great product."
Purchaser for the cardiac ward. King's College Hospital"The feedback that surgeons, nurses and patients have given about the vests is great. They are easy to use and very efficient.
We could not be happier with them."
Surgeon Review
"The sternal vest is an exceptional and innovative device, providing unparalleled support and comfort for patients recovering from heart surgery through a midline breast bone splinting procedure. Its creative design ensures optimal stability, ease of wearing it, and peace of mind facilitating the healing process."
Mr Shahzad Raja - Consultant Cardiac Surgeon
Royal Brompton and Harefield NHS Trust
Mr Shahzad Raja is a highly-experienced cardiac surgeon based in London. He performs the highest number of coronary artery bypass surgery operations at the Royal Brompton and Harefield NHS Trust and also specialises in minimal access aortic valve surgery, arterial revascularisation, endoscopic vein harvesting, keyhole heart surgery and TAVI.
CARDIO
Cardiothoracic Unisex Vest
The unisex C.A.T.S Vest has been designed with new technologies and high-quality fabrics to promote patient comfort and assist in rehabilitation after cardiothoracic surgery.
The adjustable unisex vest is intended for use after cardiac surgery resulting in a closed central chest wound or minimally invasive wound. The vest may be worn day and night to provide comfort and support during the recovery period.
C.A.T.S Vest Key Features
• Easy to apply, adjust and remove.
• Improves support of rib cage/sternum with consistent adjustable pressure.
• Available in a full range of chest sizes and two depths.
• Adjustable shoulder straps and front opening.
• New unique pocket design to accommodate devices e.g. telemetry with exit hole for wires, or battery pack for topical negative pressure dressings.
• Environmentally friendly with low carbon miles in manufacturing and materials.
• Fully compostable and recyclable packaging.
• Suitable for machine wash at 70°C and tumble dry.
CARDIO
BHIS Post Operative Cardiothoracic Support
The BHIS™ Bra has been shown to provide support and comfort following cardiothoracic surgery.
As well as providing comfort and support after cardiothoracic surgery, the BHIS™ Bra allows easy access to assess and dress the wound.
BHIS Bra Key Features
• Side panels to reduce pressure on the wound
• Removable and adjustable straps for comfort and access to the wound
• Breathable panels to reduce moisture build up
• Two-way stretch to accommodate fluid weight gain associated with cardiac surgery
• Front opening for wound assessment and wound dressing
• Triple hook and eye fastening with the option to leave lower hooks undone to avoid pressure on the lower wound
• Seams and labels on the outside of the bra to protect the skin and provide greater comfort
• Band suitable for use with the majority of chest drains
• Designed to give side support as opposed to a conventional bra which focuses on uplift
• Suitable for day and night wear
• Full standard size range, 28A – 56H
• Bespoke range: 28-56DD, FF & HH
Get In Contact
Frequently Asked Questions About Cardiac Support Wear
What is the difference between the BHIS Bra and the C.A.T.S. Vest?
The BHIS Bra is a specialised support bra engineered with side panels and cup sizing (28A to 56H) for female patients. The C.A.T.S. Vest is an adjustable, unisex thoracic support garment available in multiple chest depths and sizes (XS to 4XL) designed to act as a light splint for the rib cage and sternum.
When should I start wearing a post-operative support garment?
Patients typically begin wearing support garments as soon as they transition out of immediate hospital care or upon clinical clearance following a sternotomy. Early support helps stabilise the chest wall during initial rehabilitation and daily walks.
Do these garments accommodate chest drains or telemetry equipment?
Yes. Both garments are designed with medical practicalities in mind. The BHIS bra band accommodates standard chest drains, while the C.A.T.S. vest features a unique utility pocket with an exit hole for wires and monitoring equipment.
How do NHS hospitals procure these cardiothoracic garments?
Our cardiothoracic support range was developed alongside NHS clinical experts. NHS trusts and procurement teams can access our garments through institutional channels or by contacting our team directly for product evaluations and supply details.
How do I find the correct size for post-surgery swelling?
Our garments utilise flexible, breathable stretch fabrics designed to accommodate post-operative fluid retention and swelling without losing structural support. Comprehensive standard sizing is available across our bra ranges and unisex vest options.
