Mediastinitis Carries Highest Death Risk Postsurgery
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By
May 9, 2025
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2 min
A study of 14,850 patients who underwent cardiac surgery revealed that severe chest bone infections, specifically mediastinitis, significantly increased the risk of mortality within 90 days. Deep incisional surgical-site infections were also associated with elevated mortality risk. The study recommended close monitoring and aggressive treatment for both infection types to improve survival in patients undergoing cardiac surgery.
1. Severe chest bone infections, especially mediastinitis, were significantly associated with increased mortality within 90 days in patients who underwent cardiac surgery. 2. Deep incisional surgical-site infections also posed an elevated mortality risk. 3. Both mediastinitis and deep incisional surgical-site infections should be monitored separately for improved patient survival. 4. Mediastinitis typically developed 14 days postsurgery and was associated with distinct pathogens and outcomes compared to diSSI. 5. Closer monitoring and prompt, aggressive treatment of both infection types may improve survival in patients undergoing cardiac surgery. 6. Risk factors for 90-day mortality included age over 56 years, insulin-dependent diabetes, peripheral arterial disease, prior cardiac surgery, emergency procedures, end-stage renal disease, reduced ejection fraction, and longer cardiopulmonary bypass duration. 7. Study author recommended closer monitoring and aggressive treatment for both infection types to improve survival in patients undergoing cardiac surgery.
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