Pectus Excavatum

Pectus excavatum, or funnel chest, is a deformity of the chest characterized by a medial or lateral depression of the sternum. Pectus excavatum is present in 1 to 2% of the population. It is the most common congenital thoracic malformation with an incidence of 1 in 300 births. In women, pectus excavatum may be accompanied by breast deformity or asymmetry. There is no cardiac or respiratory impact except in very exceptional cases. The psychological impact is present at any age. Currently, only 15% of individuals with pectus excavatum undergo surgery.

The intervention for pectus occurs under general anesthesia, lasting on average 1 hour. The surgeon prepares the pocket for the size of the implant after making a 7 cm vertical midline incision. The implant is slid into the submuscular pocket in a deep position after medial muscle disinsertion, making it completely invisible. Closure is done in 3 layers with an intradermal suture using absorbable thread. The duration of hospitalization is 2 days.

Post-operative follow-up is minimally painful: treated with simple analgesics.

Few post-operative cares: absorbable stitches, no drains, only a dressing for 8 days and wearing a support bra for 1 month.

Follow-up consultation at 8 days with seroma aspiration.

Work stoppage for 15 days and sports restriction for 3 months.