Minimally Invasive Repair of Pectus Excavatum
What is a pectus excavatum?
Pectus excavatum is a depression of the breastbone, or sternum, and the lower central portion of the ribs.
What causes pectus excavatum?
Pectus excavatum is caused by an overgrowth of costal cartilage during chest wall development before birth. It is usually apparent by age 2 or 3 and can become more severe during later childhood and progress further with pubertal growth.
Who is at risk for pectus excavatum?
Pectus excavatum occurs more often in families where there is a family history of the abnormality. It is also four times more common in boys than girls and is associated with other muscle and bone (musculoskeletal) abnormalities, particularly scoliosis.
Is a pectus excavatum dangerous?
No. Occasionally patients will have complaints of chest wall pain, increased incidence of Asthma, pneumonia or bronchiectasis. The child can also experience difficulty breathing when exercising.
How is pectus excavatum repaired?
Minimally invasive pectus excavatum repair offers an effective, safe, and durable repair for the majority of patients. Under general anesthesia, a C-shaped metal strut is placed behind the breastbone and in front of the heart through a small incision on each side of the chest to create tunnels and small pockets. It is then rotated halfway around to elevate the breastbone and bend the cartilage segments of the ribs.
What happens after surgery?
- It is important to begin mobilization early on. Your child will be helped to walk the day after surgery. It is also important to keep the child’s back straight and not permit him or her to do any “log rolling”.
- Pain can be controlled with an epidural, Toradol, or other pain medications as your surgeon prescribes.
- Your child should not return to gym or contact sports such as football, hockey or boxing until after the postoperative visit with your surgeon.
- Complete recovery takes up to two months. However, aerobic activity is encouraged.
Is the bar removed?
Yes. Two to three years following the initial procedure, the metal bar is removed. This procedure is done on an outpatient basis under general anesthesia
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