Migrated sternal wire into the right ventricle: case report in cardiothoracic surgery

Area of Science:

• Cardiovascular Surgery
• Medical Imaging

Background:

• Sternal wire migration is an infrequent complication after median sternotomy, often associated with sternal dehiscence.
• Precise localization of migrated wires and their spatial relationship to surrounding structures is clinically challenging.

Observation:

• Cardiac Computed Tomographic Angiography (CCTA) using a 64-slice scanner provides high spatial and temporal resolution.
• This imaging modality allows for accurate identification of the exact position of migrated sternal wires.

Findings:

• CCTA enables detailed visualization of migrated sternal wires, clarifying their anatomical course and relationship to vital structures.
• The high-resolution imaging facilitates a comprehensive understanding of the surgical field.

Implications:

• Enhanced presurgical planning for sternal nonunion cases involving wire migration.
• Improved surgical outcomes and reduced complications through precise localization and planning.