A sternal clamp having a first sliding body member and a second sliding body member telescopically mated, and a suture-receiving channel disposed on the exterior of the first sliding body member and the second sliding body member, wherein the first sliding body member and the second sliding body member are securable about a severed sternum by encircling and securing a suture about the first sliding body member and the second sliding body member, the suture being received and retained within the suture-receiving channel.
