A technique for concurrent repair of pectus excavatum and intracardiac defects

Pectus excavatum deformity may present problems when median sternotomy is required for repair of intracardiac defects. We have used a partial median sternotomy extending from the manubrium to the level of the second intercostal space with extension into that space. The perichondral sheaths are disconnected from the sternum on the right side after removing the deformed costal cartilages. Exposure is thus provided for the cardiac procedure. Following this, the upper sternal fragments are sutured together and the repair is completed in a manner similar to the Ravitch technique.