Hydrodissection in redo sternotomies

Ann Thorac Surg. 2005 Jan;79(1):363-4. doi: 10.1016/j.athoracsur.2003.10.096.

Abstract

Injection of pressurized normal saline into the retrosternal tissue has been used in redo sternotomies. This technique has been labeled as hydrodissection. It is a simple but effective technique to help minimize the trauma and risk of complications in redo sternotomies. My colleagues and I present a series of 6 consecutive patients in whom hydrodissection was performed. There was no injury to the heart or any vessel on reentry.

Publication types

  • Evaluation Study

MeSH terms

  • Aged
  • Aged, 80 and over
  • Cardiac Surgical Procedures / methods*
  • Cardiac Tamponade / diagnostic imaging
  • Cardiac Tamponade / prevention & control
  • Dissection / methods*
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Injections / methods*
  • Intraoperative Complications / diagnostic imaging
  • Intraoperative Complications / prevention & control*
  • Male
  • Mediastinum / surgery*
  • Pericardium / surgery
  • Pressure
  • Reoperation / methods*
  • Sodium Chloride / administration & dosage
  • Sternum / surgery*
  • Tissue Adhesions / surgery
  • Ultrasonography

Substances

  • Sodium Chloride