Reducing Surgical Site Infection Rates Using an Alternative Sternal Dressing

Reducing Surgical Site Infection Rates Using an Alternative Sternal Dressing

This study will evaluate two alternative dressings compared to a standard Island dressing presently in use at Stanford Hospital to determine reductions in surgical site infection (SSI) rates among cardiac surgery patients. Cardiovascular surgery patients who will have a sternotomy incision as a routine part of their surgery will be approached to voluntarily participate. Participants will be randomized to one of three dressing to determine which dressing has the lowest rate of sternal wound infection. The investigators will also assess the impact of alternative dressing use on hospital 30-day readmission rates related to SSI.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Participants who will undergo cardiac surgery via a sternotomy incision.Inclusion criteria will be patients having surgical valve, CABGs, aortic dissection, myectomy and myotomy, Cox MAZE, Myocardial bridge Un-roofing

Exclusion Criteria:

• Patients undergoing heart transplants, Ventricular Assist Device (VAD), with postoperative courses complicated by tamponade, take-backs, and open chest incisions will also be excluded.