Experience with Vacuum-assisted closure of sternal wound infections following cardiac surgery and evaluation of chronic complications associated with its use.

摘要: Abstract Objectives: We report our experience in use of Vacuum-assisted closure therapy (VAC) the treatment poststernotomy wound infection with emphasis on recurrent wound-related problems after VAC and their treatment. Methods: Between July 2000 June 2003, 2706 patients underwent various cardiac procedures via median sternotomy. Forty-nine postoperative sternal (1.9%) were managed VAC. Wounds classified as either superficial (28 patients) or deep (21 patients). In group, 23 had definitive (GroupA), while five (Group B) followed by surgical closure. Similarly, 12 C), nine D). Patients discharged satisfactory Upon discharge up at interval three to six months. Recurrent when identified investigated additional carried out necessary. Results: There deaths, all due unrelated causes except one patient who died right ventricular rupture C). Nine Group A which system for > 21 days. Three extensive debridement osteomyelitis. All eight B presented chronic multiple debridements. Four laparoscopic omental flaps. contrast 14 D) treated shorter duration a flap direct closure, did not present problems. Conclusion: is safe reliable option infection. However, prolonged replacement appears be associated wound. Strategy short early favorable.