How to Do It: Redo Sternotomy

In this short video, Dr. Andrew Owens talks through and gives a few good tips for a safe redo sternotomy.

First, external defibrillator pads were placed and the patient was prepped. A discussion was had with the team as to the plan for a large bleed or ventricular injury.

The sternal wires were then cut and the horizontal oscillating saw was used to open the anterior and posterior table of the sternum. The sternum was then dissected off the heart or underlying structures. Once the heart or pericardium was off the sternum, a retractor could be safely placed.