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Surgical correction of funnel chest
P V Stavrev1, V P Stavrev, K N Beshkov
1Higher Medical Institute, Department of Orthopedics and Traumatology Blvd. Peshtersko Chosse, Surgical Clinics 4000 Plovdiv, Bulgaria. vstavrev@yahoo.com
Folia Medica
|February 24, 2001
Summary
Surgical correction of funnel chest using Ravitch technique modifications yielded good to very good results in adolescents. Maintaining implants for 6-12 months prevents recurrence of this chest wall deformity.
Area of Science:
- Thoracic surgery
- Pediatric surgery
- Surgical techniques
Background:
- Funnel chest (pectus excavatum) is a congenital chest wall deformity.
- Surgical correction is often necessary for functional and aesthetic reasons.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the outcomes of surgical correction for funnel chest in adolescents.
- To present experience with Rathke-Schlegel's modification of the Ravitch technique.
Main Methods:
- Seven adolescent patients (6 males, 1 female) underwent surgery.
- Rathke-Schlegel's modification of the Ravitch technique was employed.
- Various fixation methods included Kirschner's pins, sternal traction, and AO plate fixation.
Main Results:
- Very good results in 57.14% of patients; good outcomes in others.
- A 30% recurrence rate was observed.
- Complications included hemothorax, pin displacement, and surgical site infection, all managed successfully.
Conclusions:
- The surgical method is effective for correcting funnel chest.
- Implant retention for 6-12 months is crucial for solid callus formation and preventing recurrence.