American Journal of Roentgenology, Vol 129, Issue 5, 883-884
Copyright © 1977 by American Roentgen Ray Society
The kinky chest tube: a sign of entrapment following median sternotomy
AE Berkow
and
BC Salo
Entrapment of chest tubes under one or more sternal sutures is an uncommon complication of median sternotomy. Five cases occurred among 759 median sternotomies performed during a 2 year period. A radiographic sign of chest tube entrapment is presented. Early recognition may prevent a second surgical procedure.