Endoscopic release of the sternum in reoperative cardiac surgery

J Card Surg. 2006 Mar-Apr;21(2):166-7. doi: 10.1111/j.1540-8191.2006.00200.x.

Abstract

Reoperation for progressive coronary artery disease, graft closure, or valvular disease carries a higher risk to the patient. Sternal reentry is a formidable obstacle to the cardiac surgeon as a result of mediastinal scarring and adherence of vital structures to the sternum. We present our technique with endoscopic release of the sternum as an alternate, safe method of sternal reentry.

MeSH terms

  • Coronary Artery Bypass / methods*
  • Coronary Disease / surgery*
  • Humans
  • Reoperation / methods
  • Sternum / surgery*
  • Thoracoscopy*
  • Treatment Outcome