Primary closure for infected dehiscence of the sternum.

I propose a new irrigation-suction system to achieve primary closure of the sternum in cases of postoperative infected dehisced sternotomy. Of 16 cases, I had no treatment failures, no recurring infections, and no patient deaths after 1 to 8 years of follow-up. The new system entails retrosternal and superficial sets of tubes, both in double-staggered position, with primary closure of the sternum and of the skin. Skin or muscle flaps are avoided, and the stability of the chest cage is maintained. Hospitalization time is 14 to 18 days.