Hanuman syndrome: A reference to Hindu mythology in cardiothoracic surgery

摘要

The term "Hanuman syndrome" is a colloquial term for mediastinitis and other complications of a persistent open sternotomy following cardiothoracic surgery. We describe two interpretations of this term in the extant literature.Various complications can arise from open heart surgery, such as florid mediastinitis [1 ]. Florid mediastinitis causes delayed closure of the sternotomy incision made during surgery, and its management involves drainage, irrigation, and delayed debridement [2]. Goals for management of a patient with an open sternotomy include prevention of contamination of the sterile field, management of infection if it is present, minimization of additional bacterial colonization, and prevention of additional complications, primarily hemorrhage from the heart [2]. Management of a coagulopathy and accommodation of temporary cardiac assist devices also cause delayed closure of the sternotomy.