Delayed sternal closure in newborns and infants after repair of transposition of great arteries

The purpose of this study was to assess results of 150 newborns who were operated on for TGA since 2000 till 2009. In a total of 99 patients delayed sternal closure (DSC) was required in a mean 43,3±38,2 hours after operation. The sternum was left open electively either to avoid cardiac and respiratory compromise after operation or because of bleeding. Taking into account the data of homeostasis and fluid balance during operation the group of risk for DSC were revealed. The indications and appropriate time for DSC in critically ill patients after arterial switch operation were identifed as well. Infective complications developed in 25% of cases among the patients with DSC. The overall hospital mortality was 14% wich commonly depended on times of DSC postoperatively.