The effect of subcutaneous drain insertion after median sternotomy on surgical site infection in obese patients

Background: Sternal wound infection after cardiac surgery is associated with high morbidity and mortality. This study aimed to assess the effect of subcutaneous drainage on surgical site in overweight patients undergoing via median sternotomy.
 Methods: prospective was conducted 100 obese sternotomy as a part from March 2021 June 2022. The included two groups. Group 1 (n= 45) had prophylactic surgery, 2 55) did not have drainage.
 Results: Hospital stay (7.8±1.9 vs. 8.65±1.38 days; P= 0.013) were higher without drains. Deep sternal [2 (4.44%) 9 (16.4%); 0.105], superficial 7 (12.7%); 0.18] debridement secondary suture [1 (2.2%) 6 (10.9%); 0.125] non-significantly lower drains.
 Conclusion: Obese cases who received closure could incidence complications. A larger randomized trial recommended.