Abstract: A sternal retraction apparatus for cardiac surgery and dissection of the Internal Mammary Artery (IMA) includes a support post fastened to a surgical table rail and an extension arm connected to the support post by an adjustable connection joint for holding the apparatus over the sternum of a patient. A pair of adjustable retraction arms is connected to the support post by means of a pivotal joint which enables the apparatus to separate the sternum as well as elevate the rib cage for sternal exposure. Retractor blades connected directly to the retraction arms extend downwardly through an incision to retract the sternum.