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Funnel chest surgery – specialists and information

Dr. Claus Puhlmann
Medical Author
Dr. Claus Puhlmann

Pectus excavatum is a deformity of the chest. It involves the ribs and sternum sinking inwards. In severe cases, this can compress the lungs and heart, impairing their function. However, those affected often suffer only from the cosmetic appearance. Pectus excavatum can be treated with surgery for medical or cosmetic reasons. Various methods are available, which are used depending on the patient and the severity of the condition.

Here you will find further information as well as a selection of pectus excavatum specialists and centers.

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Recommended specialists for pectus excavatum surgery

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Brief overview:

  • Preliminary examinations: Pectus excavatum is usually detectable immediately after birth. However, before surgery, the extent must be accurately assessed using X-rays, MRI, lung function tests, echocardiography and stress ECG.
  • Conservative treatment: In childhood, surgery is usually not necessary; instead, physiotherapy and posture training are used. The chest can be gradually corrected using a suction cup.
  • Pectus excavatum surgery: Surgery is usually performed for psychological or cosmetic reasons. The method used depends on several factors. Metal bars are usually inserted to push the chest outwards.
  • Aftercare: Depending on the method, the patient must stay in hospital for one or more weeks. However, mobilization begins as early as the day after the procedure. This is followed by physiotherapy and muscle strengthening. The metal bars are removed approximately one year later.

Sunken chest surgery - Further information

People with a funnel chest suffer from a pathological and obvious malformation of the anterior chest. This funnel-shaped retraction can lead to functional disorders of the body.

This malformation can be corrected in selected clinics with the help of an operation. Two common surgical methods are used for this, both of which have proven to be equally successful due to their positive long-term results.

You can search for specialists and a clinic near you above.

Contact

Deutscher Verlag für Gesundheitsinformationen
Vangerowstraße 14/1
69115 Heidelberg - Germany