Sternal wire removal

[AnthonyC17]

Around 6 months ago I had an aortic valve replacement, mechanical valve. After some recent complications I have had the wound debrided and a sternal wire removed. It hurts a fair amount, not unbearable but very noticeable. Would anyone know how long this pain is expected to last?

[skid112 Heart Star]

Hi there,

i would think the wound will fairly uncomfortable for weeks rather than days. The removal of the wire, I assume this has been causing you issues, should be fairly rapid as it wont be interfering with nerve endings and will repair quickly

regards

Mark

[MichaelJH Heart Star]

Wire removal is much more common in the USofA where some people have plastic surgery to hide the scar. Whilst nothing like the original op I would think it will take 4 - 6 weeks to fully heal. Look after the wound the same way as the original to avoid infection.