[Surgical correction of pectus carinatum].

INTRODUCTION

Pectus carinatum (PC) is a protrusion of the sternum due to overgrowth of the costal cartilages. It can have considerable psychological and somatic impact on the patient. Many physicians are unaware of the beneficial effects and low comorbidity related to surgical correction and therefore erroneously advise patients against the operation.

MATERIALS AND

METHODS

We report the preliminary experience with 26 consecutive patients operated for PC at our Department between 1 April 2006 and 1 April 2007. Surgery was performed by a modified Ravitch and Welch technique. The mean age was 15 years (13-21), and 92% of the patients were boys.

RESULTS

We obtained excellent cosmetic results in the majority of patients (92%), no major complications, no major pain complaints and short hospital stays for all patients.

CONCLUSION

Patients who are psychologically or physically impaired by this deformity should be referred for surgical evaluation.