What is Pectus Excavatum?
Pectus Excavatum, also known as “funnel” chest, is a congenital deformity characterized by a concavity of the sternum. It is the most common type of congenital chest wall abnormality and it occurs in approximately 1 out of every 1,000 children.

Symptoms
Mildly present at birth, Pectus Excavatum usually worsens as the child grows, often magnifying considerably during the teenage years.

The inward facing sternum can affect heart and lung function. The heart is often displaced to the left side of the chest and there is compression of the heart and lungs. Patients may experience shortness of breath, chest pain, mitral valve prolapse, palpitations, and/or respiratory disease.

Patients may also experience emotional side effects including negative self-image and low self-esteem.

The Nuss Technique and Lorenz Pectus Bar
Previously, surgical correction was made through an invasive procedure requiring resection of both cartilage and bone. Dr Donald Nuss, from the United States, developed a minimally invasive surgical procedure using the Lorenz Pectus Bar implant to remodel the chest wall over a 2 to 3 year period.

Traditional Method

• large incision resulting in longer scar , not aesthetically pleasing.
• requires cutting of soft bone.
• tedious procedure.
• longer operating time.
• blood loss ~ 300ccs.
• longer recovery time.
• may leave patient with more rigid than normal chest.

Technique Highlights

The Nuss Technique represents significant advantages and benefits over the traditional corrective treatment, and complications of this surgery are uncommon. However, with any surgery there are risks involved.  Please consult your surgeon for these risks and for post-operative guidelines to ensure optimal results.