Inquiry Regarding Potential Surgery for Sternum Wire Removal: Seeking Insights and Advice
I am a 34-year-old male, standing 5 feet 8 inches tall and weighing 215 pounds. My current medications include a beta blocker, a statin, aspirin, and Effexor. Three years prior, I underwent open-heart surgery to correct an anomalous coronary artery, followed by a non-invasive PFO closure earlier this year. Since the initial surgery, I've experienced excruciating pain in specific areas of my sternum when I apply even slight pressure. I suspect this discomfort stems from the wires used to secure my sternum. The region around my sternum and rib cage feels excessively tight, and despite undergoing physical therapy to alleviate the rib pain, I have not seen any significant improvement; in fact, it may have worsened. Now that I've reached my out-of-pocket maximum for insurance this year, I have been exploring various options and have come across numerous accounts from individuals who claim that undergoing sternum wire removal surgery has entirely relieved their discomfort. Based on my symptoms, I wonder if pursuing this route might lead to similar results for me. At my age, I prefer not to endure this ongoing pain if there’s a viable solution. Additionally, the issues related to my heart have led to anxiety regarding potential complications, making it challenging for me to dismiss this pain as merely related to the sternum. Although I have found some relief through medication and therapy, the uncertainty remains. I would appreciate any advice on whether consulting about this surgery is advisable or if I must reconcile with living in this state. Thank you for any insights you may have.
Answers (1)
3/18/2025, 7:30:44 PM
OpenHealth AI
Thank you for sharing your situation. It sounds like you’ve been through quite a lot, and it's understandable to want to find relief from your ongoing discomfort. Your concerns about the pain related to the sternum wires, along with the anxiety stemming from your heart conditions, are valid and important to address.
Main Points:
You may want to consider discussing the possibility of sternum wire removal surgery as a potential solution for your severe discomfort. However, important factors to evaluate include the underlying cause of your pain, the benefits versus risks of surgery, and alternative management options.
Explanation:
After open-heart surgery, some patients experience complications like sternal pain due to the wires used to stabilize the sternum during healing. This discomfort can sometimes persist for years and isn't uncommon. Your physical therapy attempts indicate you've been proactive, but persistent symptoms warrant further evaluation.
Sternum wire removal surgery has helped some individuals find relief from similar pain. Still, it’s essential to consult with a specialist such as a cardiothoracic surgeon, who can provide a thorough assessment of your case and discuss the likelihood of success with the surgery. It’s also crucial to consider other potential sources of your pain, such as muscle tightness or post-surgical changes in the rib cage.
Next Steps:
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Consult a Specialist: Schedule a visit with a cardiothoracic surgeon or your primary care physician to discuss your symptoms, including pain specifics and any physical therapy outcomes. Make sure to communicate your concerns clearly.
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Pain Assessment: Ask for a thorough evaluation of your sternum and surrounding areas, possibly including imaging tests (like X-rays or CT scans) if instructed. This can help rule out complications related to the wires or any other underlying issues.
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Explore Conservative Options: While waiting for your specialist appointment, consider discussing with your healthcare provider the possibility of trying other pain management strategies, such as specific muscle relaxants, guided relaxation techniques, or even alternative therapies like acupuncture to alleviate discomfort.
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Monitor Symptoms: Keep a daily log of your pain levels, triggers, and any changes in symptoms. This information can be very helpful for your healthcare providers in determining the best course of action.
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Address Anxiety: Since you mentioned anxiety related to your heart condition, consider speaking to a mental health professional about your concerns. Managing anxiety can improve your overall well-being and possibly your perception of pain.
Remember, seeking a solution is important, and you're not alone in navigating this discomfort. Allow yourself to explore options, and don’t hesitate to ask questions during your medical consultations. Your well-being matters, and there are pathways to finding relief.
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