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Background:
Pectus excavatum is the most frequent anterior thoracic wall congenital malformation. Among teenagers, when the esthetics and clinical symptoms become more important, pectus exacvatum becomes a real psychological problem. During the time many treatment techniques have been proposed, conservative or surgical. The minimally invasive repair technique of pectus excavatum, “Nuss technique”, developed after 1986, is now the most used technique worldwide.
Objectives:
Our study aimed to analyze the degree of patients’ satisfaction regarding the esthetic results after the minimally invasive repair of pectus excavatum, as well as the improvement of respiratory functional parameters.
Method:
We will present some historical data related to surgical repair of pectus excavatum, advantages and disadvantages of open surgery; also we will present clinical and paraclinical evaluations, including anthropometric indexes, as well as indications and contraindications of Nuss technique and possible intraoperative and postoperative complications (recent and late).
Our study was carried out on a group of patients with pectus excavatum, who have been submitted to Nuss technique, during a timeframe of 4 years (2007 - 2011), whom aged from 8 to 38 years. Prior to surgery the patients were submitted to a standard protocol of investigations.
Results:
We present the benefits of Nuss technique and the improvements of the functional and aesthetical indexes. The patients who have been treated with Nuss technique are following a strict and specific postoperative protocol recommended by the physician.
Conclusions:
Nuss technique is an efficient method, with very good aesthetical and functional results, allowing quick social and professional patients’ reintegration, as well as an improved self-image and self confidence.