Parks bridging bar pectus procedure: Techniques to optimize functional and aesthetic results in 72 cases

The use of bridging bars is new to many pectus surgeons. This study describes our initial experience with bridging bar stabilization, including technical considerations and advantages.

This is a retrospective study of our first group of 72 patients using Park's pectus system.

65 % of patients received two bars; 35 % received three. Bar configurations included parallel (40 %), crossbar (38 %), and XI (22 %). Overall, crossbar configurations were used in 60 % of cases. When the diaphragm was visible at the point of maximal depression on CT, crossbars were used 80 % of the time. The mean number of costal compression sutures used for correction of rib flare was 2.7 (range 0-7). Bar displacement was 0 %.

Park's pectus system offers increased bar stability, a sternal elevation system that allows for multiple points of elevation, effective remodeling of a larger chest wall area, and reliable correction of rib flaring using costal compression sutures. Crossbar configurations are especially useful with deep, inferior depressions or when interspaces do not align with the point of maximal depression. More inferior dissection is required for proper placement of crossbars and can be safely achieved. Position of the diaphragm on CT relative to the point of maximal depression may suggest crossbars are indicated.