Review of Common Pathogens in Deep Sternal Wounds, Blood Stream and Bone Infections in Patients Following Sternotomy: A 10 Year Follow up

Abstract

Background: Deep sternal wound infections, mediastinitis and sternal osteomyelitis are devastating and lifethreatening complications of median-sternotomy incisions after cardiac surgical procedures. The incidence of surgical wound infection in sternotomies is relatively high among heart disease patients since these patients are burdened with a high number of risk factors compared to the general population.

Primary sternal osteomyelitis: A case report

“…We emphasize the importance of early detection and optimum treatment of patients with sternal osteomyelitis to avoid complications. Broad spectrum empiric antibiotic regimen should be used, covering both gram-negative and gram-positive organisms [ 18 ], in order to avoid reinfection of the wound with other organisms.…”