In North America, almost ½ million people undergo coronary artery bypass graft surgery annually and over 1/3rd develop chronic chest pain. The current study will randomize cardiac surgery patients to undergo slow sternal retraction for heart exposure (over 15 min.) versus standard-of-care (sternal opening over 30 seconds) and examine the incidence and severity of chronic post-sternotomy pain (CPSP) and quality-of life 3, 6 and 12 months post-operatively. The severity of acute post-operative pain will also be measured. Increased retraction time reduces forces required, which should translate to reduced nerve/tissue damage. If effective, this simple change in practice could be readily implemented with a major impact for patients and the health care system overall.