Xiphoidectomy: A Surgical Intervention for an Underdocumented Disorder

Area of Science:

• Gastroenterology
• Thoracic Surgery
• Diagnostic Imaging

Background:

• Nonspecific thoracic and upper abdominal symptoms often present diagnostic challenges.
• Xiphoid process abnormalities can be an overlooked cause of pain.
• Anterior displacement of the xiphoid process is associated with various contributing factors.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the diagnostic utility of plain chest radiographs in identifying anterior xiphoid displacement.
• To evaluate the efficacy of xiphoidectomy in treating xiphodynia caused by xiphoid displacement.

Main Methods:

• Case report of two patients with unexplained symptoms.
• Diagnostic imaging including plain chest radiographs.
• Physical examination to confirm xiphoid process tenderness.
• Surgical intervention: xiphoidectomy.

Main Results:

• Plain chest radiographs revealed anterior displacement of the xiphoid process in both patients.
• Physical examination confirmed the xiphoid process as the source of discomfort.
• Xiphoidectomy resulted in complete resolution of symptoms in both cases.

Conclusions:

• Anterior displacement of the xiphoid process is a potential cause of thoracic and abdominal pain.
• Plain chest radiography is a valuable tool for diagnosing xiphoid displacement.
• Xiphoidectomy is an effective treatment for symptomatic xiphoid displacement.