Sternal dehiscence (on chest radiograph)

Case contributed by Craig Hacking
Diagnosis certain

Presentation

Post CABG, sternal wound infection.

Patient Data

Age: 70 years
Gender: Male

Sternotomy wires and mediastinal clips in keeping with recent CABG. There are 7 sternal wires and the 4th (middle) wire is displaced to the right away from the other wires. Superior mediastinal widening. Features are concerning for sternotomy dehiscence.

ETT and NGT well positioned. Left lower lobe atelectasis and pleural effusion are stable compared to the previous CXR. 

Case Discussion

New or progressive malalignment of the sternal wires or fractures of the sternal wires should alert the reporter of sternotomy dehiscence.

Case courtesy of Dr Nivene Saad.

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