The Impact of a Less Restrictive Post-Sternotomy Activity Protocol Compared to Standard Sternal Precautions in Patients Following Cardiac Surgery

Guidelines following median sternotomy typically include strict sternal precautions (SP). Recently, alternative approaches propose less functional restrictions while avoiding excessive stress to the sternum. The study aimed to determine the effect of a less restrictive (LR) approach versus a standard sternal precautions protocol after median sternotomy. The study was a cross-sectional design (n = 364; SP: n = 172, 66.3 ± 11.2 y; LR: n = 196, 65.2 ± 11.2 y). This study ran in 2 consecutive phases and compared 2 groups post median sternotomy at a community-based hospital. The LR group received instructions on the Keep Your Move in the Tube™ approach. At 2-3 weeks post discharge, sternal instability was assessed using the Sternal Instability Scale (SIS), and patients completed a self-reported survey (perceived pain rating/frequency, sternal instability, and functional mobility). The 2 groups were compared using the Mann Whitney U test and Chi square test (P