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Sternal wound infection is a potentially serious complication that can occur after open-heart surgery involving a median sternotomy. It develops when bacteria invade the surgical incision, affecting the skin, soft tissues, or even the breastbone. Although relatively uncommon, this condition can significantly increase recovery time and may lead to severe complications if left untreated. Common risk factors include diabetes, obesity, smoking, prolonged surgery, poor nutrition, and weakened immunity.

Symptoms often include redness, swelling, warmth around the incision, wound drainage, persistent pain, fever, and delayed healing. In more severe cases, the infection may spread deeper into the sternum, resulting in instability of the chest wall or mediastinal infection. Diagnosis is based on clinical examination, wound cultures, blood tests, and imaging studies such as CT scans when deeper infection is suspected.

Treatment depends on the severity of the infection and typically includes intravenous antibiotics, surgical wound cleaning (debridement), drainage of infected tissue, and advanced wound care techniques such as negative-pressure wound therapy. Severe infections may require reconstructive surgery using muscle flaps to close the wound. Maintaining proper hygiene, controlling blood sugar, and following postoperative care instructions are essential preventive measures. Early intervention greatly improves healing, reduces complications, and supports a successful recovery after cardiac surgery.