Osteopathic manipulative treatment improves mobility restrictions and statics in a patient with a pectus excavatum after a sternochondroplasty. A case report.

CONTEXT: Pectus excavatum (PE) is characterized by abnormal development of the sternum and costal cartilages resulting in a posterior depression of the rib cage. Sternochondroplasty is a surgical technique used to correct severe PE and restore anatomical and functional integrity. However, post-operative musculoskeletal disorders may persist. To date, the potential of osteopathic manipulative treatment (OMT) after sternochondroplasty has not been investigated.

CASE DESCRIPTION: A 23-year-old female presented with musculoskeletal pain, reduced mobility, and persistent chest paresthesias following corrective surgery for severe PE.

INTERVENTION AND OUTCOMES: The patient underwent OMT over the course of one year (18 sessions). Posture, stabilometric parameters, respiratory function, and somatic dysfunctions were assessed during this period. Clinical outcomes included improvements in mobility, posture (4° in the sagittal plane and 3° in the frontal plane), reduction of somatic dysfunctions (from 41 to 4), and decreased pain. Respiratory reassessment also demonstrated significant improvements (VO2max increased from 16 to 22.2mL/kg.min (+38 %)).

CONCLUSION

This case highlights the potential clinical benefits of OMT as an adjunct to usual postoperative care in the recovery from sternochondroplasty. Further research is warranted to confirm these findings.