Table 1 Grading of sternal wound complications

Grade 1: Minor

Superficial wound problem: local redness or minimal drainage

Conservative approach, spontaneous healing

Grade 2: Superficial

Wound infection: positive culture

Antibiotic treatment

Grade 3: Moderate

Deep wound infection: dehiscence

Need for drainage, debridement, or VAC

Grade 4: Severe

Mediastinitis or mechanical sternal dehiscence

Refixation of the sternum or omentoplasty