A novel modified Nuss procedure for pectus excavatum: a new steel bar.

PURPOSE: The purpose of this article is to introduce a new modified Nuss procedure for pectus excavatum and to describe the configuration of the new steel bar.

DESCRIPTION: We applied a novel method with a new steel bar for minimally invasive surgical correction of pectus excavatum. The procedure was performed with a new steel bar through bilateral thoracic minimally invasive incisions using a thoracoscope for guidance. The bar was installed or removed by pushing and pulling without turning it over.

EVALUATION: One hundred forty-seven patients with pectus excavatum underwent this novel modified Nuss procedure. All patients had a satisfactory orthopedic result at discharge. There was no perioperative death or cardiac perforation. During the follow-up period, 134 patients underwent bar removal. Of the 134 cases, the initial orthopedic and functional results were excellent in 121 patients (90.3%) and good in 13 patients (9.7%). No patient had recurrence.

CONCLUSIONS

This novel modified Nuss procedure is a safe, effective, and convenient treatment for pectus excavatum.