Evaluation of a New Model of Metallic Bar and Stabilizer for Use in the Minimally Invasive Repair of Pectus Excavatum

Introduction Pectus excavatum (PE) is presented as a sunken sternum in the midline and these chest deformities are not uncommon, occurring in approximately 1/1000.

It is commonly accepted that the abnormal growth of condral cartilage results in displacement of the sternum. Most patients and their parents seek medical advice for psychosocial concerns, particularly related to the cosmetic aspects and the consequent aversion to sports or public exposure. Physiological tests are often normal, but both the cardiac index and pulmonary function may be affected.

Surgical treatment of pectus excavatum Nuss broke the paradigm in PE surgery with the publication of their results using a technique called minimally invasive. This technique involves lateral incisions in the chest and the placement of one or two temporary steel bars, which are shaped during surgery, specifically for each patient. These bars are placed in retrosternal position and the sternum is elevated without the need of cartilage resection.

This surgical technique, in addition to the bars and stabilizers, needs a set of instruments that are used in the customization of the bar for each patient and, after three years, the withdrawal of the bar at the end of the treatment.

Another problem refers to the displacement of the metallic bars that are positioned under the sternum and that are held in position by placing stabilizers, one at each lateral end of the bar. These stabilizers, which are perpendicular to the bar, has the function to expand its area of contact with the chest wall in order to prevent it from moving from its position.