OBJECTIVE: To describe a new technique for repairing recalcitrant wounds resulting from infection and dehiscence in sternotomy of cardiac surgery in 6 women, who had an extensive raw area in the sternal region and had undergone a previous reintervention with relapse. METHODS: The surgical technique used was based on a triangular flap composed of skin and breast tissue with a base in the inframammary crease, which was transposed to the raw area to provide coverage with vascularized tissue. RESULTS: The several treatments of the acute phase are discussed, as are the techniques for reconstructing dehiscences of the sternal region. CONCLUSION: That flap composed of skin and breast tissue fulfills the needs regarding the dimensions of tissue loss in the raw area, in addition to providing greater protection against infection to an area that, due to the dehiscence, remained exposed for a longer period.
cardiac surgery; plastic surgery; coronary artery disease; dehiscence
