Ribs with Anterior Protrusion (Winged Ribs) Treated Using Percutaneous Chondroplasty

Thoracic features play a significant role in determining various plastic surgery techniques. Particularly, the thorax has potential for excessive anterior projection, commonly referred to as winged ribs. This study aimed to describe a treatment method for addressing winged ribs for aesthetic purposes using percutaneous chondral management.

Thirty-two female patients underwent FrontXribs from February to March 2023. Two angular measurements were obtained: (1) the angle formed by lines intersecting tangentially to the shoulder and the lower gluteal border; and (2) the angle formed by a line tangential to the greatest anterior projection, intersected by a vertical line on the standing axis. Length measurements were obtained using a tape measure at the position of the greatest thoracic projection. Pulmonary function studies were conducted. All variables were measured before surgery and 6 months postoperatively.

On average, patients were 25 years old. The average operative time was 51.1 minutes, and all patients underwent general anesthesia. The average increase for angular measurement 1 was 26.1 degrees, whereas that for angular measurement 2 was 3.43 degrees. The average decrease in anterior chest length during the postoperative period was 9.66 cm (P < 0.001). Spirometric tests showed no significant changes 6 months postoperatively.

The FrontXribs technique for treating winged ribs effectively reduces anterior costal protrusion, as evidenced by the angular variation of projections and the reduction in thoracic length at this level. No adverse effects on respiratory function were observed 6 months postoperatively.