Reducing Surgical Site Infection Rates Using an Alternative Sternal Dressing

This study will evaluate two alternative dressings compared to a standard Island dressing presently in use at Stanford Hospital to determine reductions in surgical site infection (SSI) rates among cardiac surgery patients. Cardiovascular surgery patients who will have a sternotomy incision as a routine part of their surgery will be approached to voluntarily participate. Participants will be randomized to one of three dressing to determine which dressing has the lowest rate of sternal wound infection. The investigators will also assess the impact of alternative dressing use on hospital 30-day readmission rates related to SSI.