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Pleural and pericardial morbidity after minimal access repair of pectus excavatum

C Castellani1, A K Saxena, D Zebedin

  • 1Department of Pediatric and Adolescent Surgery, Medical University Graz, Auenbruggerplatz 34, 8036, Graz, Austria. christoph.castellani@meduni-graz.at

Langenbeck'S Archives of Surgery
|December 19, 2008
PubMed
Abstract

Insights

Minimal access repair of pectus excavatum (MARPE) leads to frequent pleural and pericardial issues. However, most patients with these morbidities from MARPE procedures do not require invasive interventions.

Area of Science:

  • Thoracic surgery
  • Pediatric surgery
  • Cardiothoracic surgery

Background:

  • Pectus excavatum is a congenital chest wall deformity.
  • Minimal access repair of pectus excavatum (MARPE) is a surgical technique for correction.
  • Understanding potential complications is crucial for patient management.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To evaluate pleural and pericardial morbidity after MARPE.
  • To assess the incidence of complications in patients undergoing pectus excavatum repair.
  • To determine the need for interventions for these morbidities.

Main Methods:

  • Prospective data collection from 2000 to 2007.
  • Identification of patients who underwent MARPE.
  • Analysis of pneumothorax, pleural effusions, and pericardial effusions.

Main Results:

  • Eighty-four of 180 patients experienced pleural or pericardial morbidities.
  • Pneumothorax occurred in 33 patients (5 required chest tubes).
  • Pleural effusions in 53 patients (4 recurred, 18 needed drainage); pericardial effusions in 5 patients.

Conclusions:

  • MARPE is linked to a high incidence of pleural and pericardial morbidities.
  • Despite high rates, interventions are infrequently required.
  • MARPE is a viable option for pectus excavatum repair with manageable complications.

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