High-pressure suction drainage for poststernotomy mediastinitis
Okada, M.; Tokunaga, N.; Nakai, M.; Ochi, Y.; Kanki, K.
Kyobu Geka. Japanese Journal of Thoracic Surgery 59(3) 175-178; Discussion: 178-180
2006
ISSN/ISBN: 0021-5252 PMID: 16528987 Document Number: 596447
We present a case of high-pressure suction drainage for poststernotomy mediastinitis. A 67-year-old man who underwent coronary artery bypass grafting because of angina pectoris was noted massive dirty exudate fluid (putrid secretions) from median sternal wound on the 6th postoperative day. The sternal wounds were completely reopened and all sternal wires removed. Thorough debridement was performed. The mediastinum was then washed out with warn normal saline. The polyurethane foam was shaped to fit the resulting sternal defect and placed within the cavity just below the skin edge. The suction tube was inserted inside the foam and the area was covered with the adhesive drape. After 45 days suction drainage the sternal wound was closed, after which he was discharged.