Intermediate
Technical
In the Industry Vocabulary Test
median sternotomy
Standard surgical approach involving division of the sternum along its midline to access the heart.
Full Definition
Median sternotomy is the most common surgical incision used in cardiac surgery, involving a vertical cut through the center of the breastbone from the suprasternal notch to the xiphoid process. The sternum is then divided using an oscillating saw and spread apart with a retractor to provide optimal exposure of the heart and great vessels. This approach offers excellent visualization while maintaining structural integrity for closure.
Usage
Usage note: Always specify 'median' to distinguish from other sternotomy approaches.
In Context
- "Access was obtained through a standard median sternotomy incision." — Operative report
- "The patient's previous median sternotomy complicated reentry procedures." — Surgical planning note
Also known as
midline sternotomy
full sternotomy
Contrasted with
thoracotomy
mini-sternotomy
Don't confuse with
lateral thoracotomy
partial sternotomy