Derivation and validation of an early diagnostic score for mediastinitis after cardiothoracic surgery.

Objectives: The aim of this study was to elaborate on and validate a score for the early diagnosis of mediastinitis after cardiothoracic surgery.

Methods: Between 2007 and 2017, patients who experienced thoracic surgical-site infection after cardiothoracic surgery were enrolled. Laboratory, clinical, and chest CT findings were retrospectively analyzed.