title: Sternotomy and crutches.
abstract: The use of crutches following a sternotomy raises the concern of sternal dehiscence. We discuss secure reinforced sternal closure, classify sternal distractional forces and discuss the postoperative mobilization process.
authors.affiliation: Department of Cardiothoracic Surgery, Sir Charles Gairdner Hospital, Hospital Avenue, Nedlands, Perth, Australia. lucmedi@hotmail.com
authors.forename: Lucas H A
authors.initials: LH
authors.lastname: Sanders
authors.forename: Weiwen
authors.initials: W
authors.lastname: Chen
authors.forename: Steve E
authors.initials: SE
authors.lastname: Cindric
authors.forename: Mark A J
authors.initials: MA
authors.lastname: Newman
mesh_terms: D000368:Aged; D006348:Cardiac Surgical Procedures / Q000379:methods; D003446:Crutches / Q000009:adverse effects*; D005500:Follow-Up Studies; D006331:Heart Diseases / Q000601:surgery; D006801:Humans; D007103:Immobilization / Q000379:methods*; D008297:Male; D056346:Sternotomy / Q000379:methods*; D013529:Surgical Wound Dehiscence / Q000209:etiology* / Q000517:prevention & control