Professional
Technical
In the Industry Vocabulary Test
sternal dehiscence
Pronunciation: /dɪˈhɪsəns/
Separation or breakdown of sternal closure following median sternotomy.
Full Definition
Sternal dehiscence is a serious postoperative complication involving partial or complete separation of the sternum after median sternotomy closure. Risk factors include diabetes, obesity, osteoporosis, prolonged mechanical ventilation, and infection. Clinical presentation ranges from superficial wound separation to deep sternal wound infection with mediastinitis. Management may require surgical debridement, rewiring, or complex reconstruction with muscle flaps. Prevention involves proper sternal closure technique and optimization of patient factors.
Usage
Usage note: Often preceded by 'sternal wound' in clinical contexts.
In Context
- "Patient developed sternal dehiscence requiring surgical revision." — Complication report
- "Early signs of sternal dehiscence included wound drainage and instability." — Clinical assessment
Also known as
sternal separation
sternal disruption
Contrasted with
sternal healing
primary closure
Don't confuse with
sternal infection
mediastinitis