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A simple method of sternal traction to relieve compression of the heart after open heart surgery

Published online by Cambridge University Press:  19 August 2008

Osamu Matsuki ,
Toshikatsu Yagihara  and
Yasunaru Kawashima
Osamu Matsuki*
Affiliation:
From the Department of Cardiovascular Surgery, National Cardiovascular Center, Suita
Toshikatsu Yagihara
Affiliation:
From the Department of Cardiovascular Surgery, National Cardiovascular Center, Suita
Yasunaru Kawashima
Affiliation:
From the Department of Cardiovascular Surgery, National Cardiovascular Center, Suita
*
Dr. Osamu Matsuki, Department of Cardiovascular Surgery, National Cardiovascular Center, 5-7-1 Fujishirodai, Suita, 565 Japan. Tel. 06- 833-5012; Fax. 06-833-9865.
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Abstract

A simple technique is described with which to relieve postoperative compression of the heart. Although delayed sternal closure has conventionally been used to deal with postoperative compression, this maneuver always exposes the patient to the risk of infection. We have recently employed a simple method of sternal traction when there are signs of compression on temporary sternal closure. One or two couples of sutures in the sternum are used supported by bags of saline. This simple and effective method is applicable to patients, but especially to infants and neonates, without worrying about overindications.

Keywords

Sternal tractionheart compressionopen heart surgery
Type
Brief Reports
Information
Cardiology in the Young , Volume 4 , Issue 1 , January 1994 , pp. 82 - 83
Copyright
Copyright © Cambridge University Press 1994

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References

Riahi, M, Tomatis, LA, Schlosser, RJ, Bertolozzi, E, Johnston, DW.Cardiac compression due to closure of the median sternotomy in open heart surgery. Chest 1975; 67: 113–114.CrossRefGoogle ScholarPubMed
Misawa, Y, Hasegawa, T, Fukushima, K.Delayed sternal closure after cardiac surgery. J Japanese Assoc ThoracSurg 1992; 40: 1085–1088.Google ScholarPubMed