During pectus excavatum repair, cartilage in the
chest is removed and the bones and muscles are repositioned. In some cases, a
supportive device is placed in the chest cavity in order to sustain the new position,
and may remain in place for six months.
Also
Known As:
Conditions
Treated with Pectus Excavatum Repair:
Pectus excavatum repair may be performed in cases of
pectus excavatum, a congenital deformity that causes the chest to have a sunken
appearance. Surgery is especially considered if the deformity causes chest pain
or breathing difficulty.
There are no comparable non-surgical or surgical
alternatives to pectus excavatum repair.
Anesthesia
with Pectus Excavatum Repair:
Pectus excavatum repair is performed under general
anesthesia, which means that the patient is asleep and completely unaware
during the procedure.
Potential
Complications from Pectus Excavatum Repair:
Possible risks following pectus excavatum repair
include infection, bleeding, scarring and a negative reaction to the
anesthesia. It is also possible for the abnormal cartilage to reform.
Prognosis
after Pectus Excavatum Repair:
The prognosis for a positive end result following
pectus excavatum repair is good, especially for improving cosmetic appearance.
Recovery
from Pectus Excavatum Repair:
Total recovery from pectus excavatum repair takes
six to eight weeks.