What is Pectus Excavatum?

Pectus Excavatum, often referred to as "sunken chest" or "funnel chest," is a condition where the breastbone (sternum) is sunken inward, giving the chest a caved-in appearance. This condition can range from mild to severe and may cause not only cosmetic concerns but also health issues like breathing difficulties and impaired heart function in more advanced cases.

Symptoms of Pectus Excavatum
  • Noticeable depression in the center of the chest.
  • Difficulty in breathing, especially during exercise.
  • Fatigue and reduced stamina.
  • Chest pain and palpitations.
  • Poor posture and self-consciousness about appearance.

If you or your child experiences any of these symptoms, it may be time to consult with a thoracic surgeon to explore your treatment options.

Our Expertise in Pectus Excavatum Correction

At theInstitute of Chest Surgery, Medanta - The Medicity, Gurugram , we specialize in the correction of Pectus Excavatum using the minimally invasive Nuss Procedure. Our highly skilled thoracic surgeons have extensive experience in correcting chest wall deformities, ensuring optimal cosmetic and functional results.

robotic-thymec-post
robotic-thymec-post

The Nuss Procedure for Pectus Excavatum

The Nuss Procedure is a highly effective, minimally invasive technique to correct Pectus Excavatum.

This 1 to 2 hour surgery corrects the shape of the chest by using a curved metal bar that is placed under the breastbone. With the help of a small camera, the surgeon will create a pathway across the chest under the breastbone and insert a Pectus Support Bar.

The bar is shaped to fit the patient and lifts the chest into a normal shape. As the bar pushes the breastbone forward, it bends the cartilage that holds the breastbone to the ribs, promoting that cartilage to heal in a new, normal shape.

Symptoms of Pectus Excavatum
  • Two small incisions (usually 2 inches in length) are made to provide access under the sternum. Exact position of the incisions can vary depending on whether the patient is male or female.
  • A video camera used for surgery (called a thoracoscope) is inserted through a third small incision on one side below the others.
  • While using the camera to see inside the chest, a curved introducer instrument is used to create a pathway across the chest below the sternum.
  • A metal bar shaped to fit the patient, called a Pectus Support Bar, is placed in the pathway under the sternum and then rotated to lift the chest and correct the deformity.
  • The video camera is removed and all incisions are closed at the end of the surgery.

After approximately 2 to 3 years, the Pectus Support Bar is removed through a small incision on the patient’s side.

This procedure is particularly popular due to:

  • Small Incisions: Minimal scarring and faster recovery.
  • Shorter Recovery Time: Patients can resume normal activities within a few weeks.
  • Excellent Cosmetic Results: The sunken chest is corrected, restoring a more natural chest appearance.
  • Improved Function: Enhanced lung capacity and heart function, especially in severe cases.

Why Choose Us for Pectus Excavatum Surgery?

  • Highly Skilled Surgeons: Our team consists of experts in thoracic surgery, with extensive experience in performing the Nuss Procedure.
  • Minimally Invasive Approach: We focus on achieving the best results with the least disruption to your body, leading to quicker recovery and less pain.
  • Comprehensive Care: From pre-surgery consultations to post-operative rehabilitation, we offer a complete care plan to ensure the best possible outcome.
  • State-of-the-Art Technology: Our use of advanced surgical tools and techniques, such as 4K imaging and fluorescence guidance, ensures precision and safety during surgery.

Life After the Nuss Procedure

The following information is general in nature and intended for educational purposes only. It does not constitute medical advice or recommendations. Each patient’s recovery is unique, and results may vary. Always consult your doctor for specific medical advice and before starting any new activities.

Immediately After Surgery

After the Nuss procedure, patients are transferred to the Post Anesthesia Care Unit (PACU) for close observation as they wake from anesthesia. The PACU is staffed by medical professionals specifically trained to monitor post-surgical patients. Most individuals are moved to their hospital room a few hours after surgery, where the next phase of recovery begins.

Length of Hospital Stay

The typical hospital stay lasts 3 to 5 days . During this time, the medical team will:

  • Manage post-operative pain
  • Provide physical therapy, such as deep-breathing exercises
  • Offer detailed instructions on how to manage recovery at home
1 to 4 Weeks After Surgery

In the first four weeks following surgery, patients will have multiple follow-up appointments with their surgeon to monitor progress. It's essential to follow all physical activity guidelines provided by the surgeon. Each patient may have individualized restrictions, but the general advice is to take it easy during this period. While post-operative pain gradually decreases, it is vital to continue following the surgeon's instructions to ensure proper healing and avoid complications.

4 to 6 Weeks After Surgery

Most patients are cleared to return to daily activities within 4 to 6 weeks, but it is important to continue adhering to activity restrictions. Patients may be advised to:

  • Perform deep-breathing exercises twice daily (morning and evening)
  • Engage in frequent walking to aid recovery
  • Avoid bending, twisting, or waist-level movements
  • Maintain a straight posture and avoid slouching
6 to 12 Weeks After Surgery

As recovery progresses into weeks 6 to 12, patients may be able to resume normal activities , including certain non-contact sports. Heavy lifting may be allowed after 2 months, and some patients can return to sports such as swimming or running by 3 months.
Clinical research suggests that cardiopulmonary function (breathing and stamina) may improve significantly after the Nuss procedure. However, individual results can vary, and not all patients will experience a noticeable improvement. Always follow your doctor’s guidance on physical activity.

12 Weeks After Surgery

By the 12-week mark, most patients are generally cleared to resume all normal activities , including non-contact sports. Your surgeon may encourage specific exercises to promote chest growth and strengthen chest muscles during this period. Regular daily activities should be manageable without significant restrictions.

Bar Removal

The Pectus Support Bar is typically removed 2 to 3 years after the initial surgery, once your surgeon confirms that the chest has stabilized. Bar removal is often a simple procedure and usually does not require an overnight hospital stay. The surgeon will use one or both of the original incisions to access and remove the bar.
Always consult your surgeon for personalized post-operative care and activity guidelines to ensure a safe and successful recovery.

Book a Consultation

If you or a loved one has Pectus Excavatum and are considering surgery, our team is here to guide you through every step of the process. Schedule a consultation today to learn more about how the Nuss Procedure can improve your quality of life.

Contact Us: +91-9818045855

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Yes, the Nuss Procedure is commonly performed on children and adolescents, as the chest wall is still flexible and can be easily corrected. However, the procedure is also effective for adults, although recovery may take a bit longer. As with any surgery there are risks involved :
  • Bleeding.
  • Infection.
  • Pain.
  • Bar(s) moving out of place.

The bar is typically removed after 2-3 years, depending on how well the chest has stabilized. Removal is a relatively simple procedure.

While uncommon, complications can occur during and after surgery. Complications include, but are not limited to:
  • Metal sensitivity reaction or allergic reaction to the implant (Pectus Support Bar) material (metal).
  • Pain, discomfort, or abnormal sensation due to the presence of the device.
  • Surgical trauma; permanent or temporary nerve damage, permanent or temporary damage to heart, lungs, and other organs, body structures or tissues
  • Skin irritation, infection, and pneumothorax (air leaking in the space between the lung and chest wall, which may cause the lung to collapse).
  • Fracture, breakage, migration, or loosening of the implant.
  • Inadequate or incomplete remodeling of the deformity or return of deformity, prior to or after removal of implant.
  • Permanent injury or death.
  • You are not a candidate for treatment with the Pectus Support Bar if you have any of the following:

    • Active infection
    • Certain metal allergy or sensitivity
    • Insufficient quantity or quality of bone or tissue to allow chest wall remodeling
    • Mental condition preventing compliance with post-operative care instructions

Most patients are able to return to light activities within a few weeks. However, it’s important to avoid strenuous physical activity for several months to ensure proper healing.

Yes, the goal of the Nuss Procedure is not only to improve the function of the chest but also to enhance its appearance, resulting in a normal, even chest contour.
whatsapp-mobi
h-call