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Extracorporeal membrane oxygenation offers sufficient cardiopulmonary support in adults with similar hospital and midterm survival rates to those of other mechanical support systems. Early indication, alternative peripheral cannulation techniques, and reduced anticoagulation to avoid perioperative bleeding could improve our results with increasing experience.

Bilateral pectoralis major flap repair is a safe technique to cure severe mediastinitis necessitating complete sternal resection. Wounds close without extensive reconstructive surgery. Cosmetic results as well as stabilization of the chest were good. Patients reported an almost uncompromised quality of life without respiratory impairment.

No abstract