Prevention and Treatment of Mediastinitis Following Cardiac Surgery
Furukawa, K.; Morita, S.
Kyobu Geka. Japanese Journal of Thoracic Surgery 70(8): 601-604
2017
ISSN/ISBN: 0021-5252 PMID: 28790274 Document Number: 691817
Mediastinitis after cardiac surgery occurs about 1% of the time and is associated with adverse effects on both short- and long-term outcomes. Therefore, prevention of mediastinitis is very important. However, when this complication occurs, a radical cure should be performed using a safe and reliable method. Many pre-, intra-, and post-operative risk factors have been reported. Perioperative management based on an understanding of the pathological condition that causes this complication is an effective prevention strategy. Early detection and treatment are most important, and there should be close coordination with plastic surgeons. Recently, negative pressure wound therapy has been used widely and appears to be effective for this complication.