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Sternal wound reconstruction: 252 consecutive cases. The Lenox Hill experience
Norman H Schulman1, Valavanur Subramanian
1Division of Plastic Surgery and Department of Cardiothoracic Surgery, Lenox Hill Hospital, New York, NY 10021, USA. normskipv@aol.com
Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery
|June 29, 2004
Summary
This study details 252 secondary sternal wound closures after median sternotomies. Successful treatment involved thorough débridement, eliminating dead space with healthy tissue, and maintaining suction.
Area of Science:
- Cardiothoracic Surgery
- Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery
Background:
- Median sternotomy is a common surgical approach.
- Sternal wound complications can occur post-surgery.
- Secondary sternal wound closure requires specialized management.
Purpose of the Study:
- To describe a protocol for managing secondary sternal wound closures.
- To analyze factors influencing treatment selection for complex wounds.
- To report outcomes of a 14-year experience with sternal wound management.
Main Methods:
- Review of 252 consecutive secondary sternal wound closures.
- Detailed description of treatment protocols from consultation to postoperative care.
- Analysis of diverse and complex patient and wound factors.
Main Results:
- Successful management of 252 sternal wound closures.
- Identification of key elements for successful outcomes.
- Emphasis on individualized treatment based on wound complexity.
Conclusions:
- Comprehensive wound débridement is crucial.
- Eliminating dead space with healthy tissue is essential.
- Maintaining active suction promotes healing in complex sternal wounds.