sternotomy
Pronunciation: ster-NOT-oh-me
Surgical division of the sternum to access the mediastinal structures, typically performed as median sternotomy in cardiac surgery.
Full Definition
Sternotomy is the surgical division of the sternum, most commonly performed as a median sternotomy where the sternum is cut longitudinally to provide access to the heart, great vessels, and other mediastinal structures. This is the standard surgical approach for most open-heart procedures including coronary artery bypass grafting, valve repairs, and congenital heart surgery. The procedure involves using a sternal saw to divide the bone, followed by retraction to create the operative field. Medical editors should note this differs from thoracotomy, which involves opening the chest through the intercostal spaces.
Usage
Usage note: Use 'median sternotomy' when specificity is needed; avoid confusing with thoracotomy procedures.
In Context
- "The patient underwent median sternotomy for triple-vessel coronary artery bypass grafting." — operative report
- "Sternal wound infection following sternotomy remains a serious postoperative complication." — clinical review