A xiphisternal ulcer effectively treated with xiphoidectomy

Area of Science:

• Musculoskeletal Disorders
• Surgical Case Reports

Background:

• Xiphoid syndrome is a rare musculoskeletal disorder characterized by precordial pain (xiphodynia) due to xiphoid process abnormalities.
• The xiphoid process, a small cartilaginous extension of the lower sternum, can abnormally protrude, causing symptoms.

Observation:

• A patient presented with a rare complication of xiphoid syndrome: a xiphisternal ulcer.
• The ulcer resulted from impaired skin blood flow caused by a protruding xiphoid process, exposing the bone.

Findings:

• This is the first reported case of a xiphisternal ulcer secondary to a protruding xiphoid process.
• Surgical excision of the xiphoid process (xiphoidectomy) using a T-saw provided safe and effective treatment.

Implications:

• This case expands the understanding of potential xiphoid syndrome complications.
• Xiphoidectomy is a viable treatment option for severe presentations involving xiphisternal ulceration.