Surgical repair of pectus excavatum not requiring exogenous implants in 113 patients

Pectus excavatum is relatively common congenital chest deformity that is often accompanied by physical and psychological impairment. The surgical methods for pectus excavatum repair are the subject of some controversy. We review our experience using a procedure in which the introduction of exogenous material is unnecessary.

From July 1993 to March 2008, 113 patients underwent surgical repair of pectus excavatum. Sterno-costal elevation was adopted for 102 patients, including all of the paediatric patients and most of the adults. Sternal turnover was employed for 11 adult patients with severe asymmetric deformities. In sterno-costal elevation, a section of the third or fourth to the seventh costal cartilages as well as the lower tip of the sternum below the sixth cartilage junction are resected, and all of the cartilage stumps are re-sutured to the sternum. The secured ribs generate 0.5-10 kg of tension, pulling the sternum bilaterally, such that the resultant force causes the sternum to rise anteriorly. These forces are sufficient to correct the deformities and to prevent flail chest. In sternal turnover, the sternum is cut at the third intercostal space. The lower part of the sternum is turned over and fixed to the upper sternum with an overlap of 1cm. Sections of the third to the seventh rib cartilages are resected and affixed in the same fashion as in sterno-costal elevation.

There were no operative deaths, and in all cases the deformities were corrected satisfactorily. Ninety-nine patients (88%) were graded as Excellent, and the remaining 14 (12%) were graded Good. None of the patients developed any life-threatening complications. No patient reported residual pain. No re-operations were required for any reasons. The patients resumed daily activities of all types, including contact sports, within 3 months after surgery.

We believe that morbidity is one of the most important factors to be considered in operative invasions. Our technique represents a less-invasive and lower-risk procedure for the repair of pectus excavatum in any age group.