Pectus Deformities: Is Kirschner Use Sufficient for Sternal Stabilization?

Background : The results of correxion surgery of the chest wall deformities are pretty good. The aims of surgery are provide cosmetic improvement and eliminate the negative side-effects of on the cardiopulmonary system. We presented our clinic experince in patients who were operated with pectus deformities. Methods: Between 2003 - 2011, total of 41 patients who underwent modified Rawitch technique with pectus excavatum and pectus carinatum were included in this study. Kirschner wire was used for sternal fixation. Kirshner wire was taken between postoperative 12 - 15 days. Results : No mortality was observed. Recurrence occured in one patient (2.4%). Operative time lasted between 2.2 - 3.2 hours (mean 1.8 hours). Age, ranged between 4 - 26 years, mean age was 14.3 years. Thirteen of patients were pectus carinatum, and 25 of them were pectus excavatum. Three patients had mixed type deformity. There were no major complications. The morbidity rate was 26.8%. Mean hospital stay was 18.3 days (17 - 28 days). Conclusions : Cosmetic and psychological problems in patients with pectus deformities improved with surgical correction. In addition, this operation eliminates the negative effects of cardiopulmonary system. The stabilization of sternum with Kirschner wire is a cheap, effective and uncomplicated. doi:10.4021/jcs46w