[The reconstruction of funnel chest deformity with the reversed transplantation of sternum-costicartilage flap carried by the abdominal rectus pedicle].

OBJECTIVE

To investigate the reconstructive operative procedures of funnel chest with "sternum-costicartilage" flap carried by the abdominal rectus pedicle.

METHODS

(1) In accordance with the lesioned area of funnel-like depressed deformity of anterior thoracic wall, a perpendicular median incision was designed and made; (2) The "sternum-costicartilage" flap carrying the abdominal rectus pedicle was used and reversed and transplanted to reconstruct severe funnel chest deformity.

RESULTS

The procedure was used in 7 cases from 1999 to 2005. The results of surgery were satisfactory. There were no recurrence after operation.

CONCLUSIONS

The procedure reported here is rather safe, solid and sound with good therapeutic results, and is of great value in clinical practice.