Expected Imaging Findings and Postoperative Complications of Median Sternotomy

A typical approach for many cardiovascular surgical procedures is median sternotomy. Despite advances in surgical techniques and postoperative care, complications still occur in 0.5-5.0% of cases. Radiological assessment of the chest after sternotomy is a challenge, because normal findings resulting from surgical trauma can resemble complications. This pictorial essay aims to provide an overview of normal postoperative imaging findings and the spectrum of complications that can arise, including surgical material-related issues, hematomas, bone complications, and infections. Diagnosis and management require careful interpretation of imaging studies, considering the recovery timeline and clinical status of the patient. With the increasing number of cardiothoracic surgical procedures, this is essential knowledge for radiologists, allowing them to contribute to an accurate diagnosis and the appropriate management of patients.