Computed Tomography Scanning for Sternal Wound Infections: A Systematic Review
Manasi Mahesh Shirke1, Catherine Dominic2, Pradipta Debnath3
1School of Medicine, Queen's University Belfast, School of Medicine, Belfast, UK.
The Ulster Medical Journal
|January 31, 2024
Summary
Computed tomography (CT) scans aid in diagnosing sternal wound infections (SWI) after cardiac surgery. Key CT findings include fluid collection and gas, helping identify infection extent.
Area of Science:
- Medical Imaging
- Thoracic Surgery
- Infectious Diseases
Background:
- Sternal wound infection (SWI) is a significant risk following sternotomy in cardiac surgery.
- Computed tomography (CT) is utilized for diagnosing and assessing SWI, including identifying sternal dehiscence.
Approach:
- A systematic literature review was conducted across PubMed, Embase, and Ovid, adhering to PRISMA guidelines.
- The review identified 25 peer-reviewed articles focusing on CT utility, identified features, patient outcomes, and diagnostic accuracy for SWI.
Key Points:
- CT imaging is beneficial for diagnosing SWI and determining infection components.
- Common CT findings indicative of SWI include mediastinal fluid collection, free gas, pleural effusions, and sternal dehiscence.
Conclusions:
- CT scanning is an emerging imaging methodology for SWI and post-sternotomy complications.
- Further research is needed to expand the literature, establish guidelines, and define specific radiological signs for SWI detection.
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