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.