Objective To investigate surgical strategies using bilateral pectoralis major muscle flaps for the treatment of sternal dehiscence after cardiac surgery. Methods From May 2005 to October 2010，21 patients with sternal dehiscence, sternal osteomyelitis and mediastinitis after cardiac surgery were admitted to Beijing An Zhen Hospital of Capital Medical University. There were 13 male patients and 8 female patients with their age of 53-72 （64.5±7.8） years. There were 19 patients after coronary artery bypass grafting （CABG） and 2 patients after heart valve replacement. The non-viable and necrotic bones were debrided and sternal wires partially or completely removed. The sternal origins of pectoralis major were released on both sides. The pectoralis major muscle flaps were tensionlessly sutured across medially over the sternal defect. Multiple suction drains were placed and removed in due time. The skin was intermittently closed. Results All the pectoralis major muscle flaps lived well after surgery，and all the patients were discharged in 2 weeks after surgery. Twenty patients were discharged with complete wound closure，and 1 patient had wound fistula and infection after removal of suction drains that was healed after another surgery to resect the wound fistula. During 6 month follow-up，sternal wound healed well in all the patients with normal thoracic appearance，and none of the patients had abnormal respiratory movement, infection recurrence or persistent infection. Conclusion Bilateral pectoralis major muscle flap technique is a positive and efficient surgical strategy for the treatment of refractory sternal dehiscence after cardiac surgery.
ObjectiveTo summarize the experiences of surgical treatment of sternal dehiscence after cardiac surgery. MethodsFrom January 2011 to January 2014, 7 patients with sternal dehiscence after cardiac surgery were admitted to our hospital. There were 4 male patients and 3 females with an age of 35-72 (52.5±13.4) years old. Two patients accepted coronary artery bypass, 4 underwent mechanical valve replacement and 1 underwent Sun’s procedure. The necrotic bones were debrided and sternal wires completely removed. After the original wires were completely extracted, the infected tissues behind the sternum were removed. Part of the pectoralis major was released with free tension on both sides when suturing was carried out over the sternal defect. Negative pressure drainage tube was used for full drainage. ResultsAll the patients were discharged from hospital with very good recovery. The sternal wound was healing well with normal thoracic appearance, and none of the patients had recurrent infections. ConclusionsPatients with sternal dehiscence after cardiac surgical procedure should undergo surgical debridement. Stabilizing the sternum, rich blood supply and improvement of overall condition of the patients are very important for recovery.