[Vacuum assisted closure for postoperative mediastinitis using a portable aspirator]

Area of Science:

• Cardiovascular Surgery
• Infectious Diseases
• Medical Devices

Background:

• Mediastinitis is a serious complication following cardiac surgery.
• Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) presents a significant treatment challenge.
• Standard vacuum-assisted closure (VAC) may require specific adaptations in patients with comorbidities.

Observation:

• A 67-year-old male with diabetes and intellectual disability developed MRSA mediastinitis post-coronary artery bypass grafting.
• Traditional wall suction for VAC was deemed difficult due to the patient's intellectual disability.
• A portable SB VAC system was utilized as a viable alternative for VAC therapy.

Findings:

• Successful treatment of MRSA mediastinitis was achieved using VAC therapy.
• The SB VAC system functioned effectively as a portable aspirator, facilitating treatment.
• This case demonstrates the adaptability and efficacy of VAC in complex patient scenarios.

Implications:

• Vacuum-assisted closure (VAC) is an effective treatment modality for post-cardiac surgery mediastinitis.
• The SB VAC system provides a practical and portable solution for VAC therapy, especially in patients with special needs.
• This case highlights the importance of tailored treatment approaches in managing surgical site infections.