[Submammary skin incision for longitudinal medial sternotomy]

The submammary incision has been postulated as an alternative in median sternotomy approach since 1960. We used this incision in 32 females patients from 1 to 24 years. The diagnoses were atrial septal defects (ASD) 23 patients, ventricular septal defect (VSD) 2 patients, double outlet right ventricle 1 patient, supravalvular aortic stenosis 1 patient, ASD with VSD 3 patients and partial anomalous pulmonary venous connection 1 patient. Nine patients had a complication: cheloid scar 1 patient, seroma 2 patients, wound dehiscence 3 patients, and diminution of sensitivity 3 patients. We conclude, that this type of surgical approach is an excellent alternative for women with good aesthetic and psychological results. Their complications are easy to correct.