AN EXPERIENCE OF CORRECTIVE SURGERY OF 37 CASES OF CHEST DEFORMITY

Corrective Surgery of Chest Deformity

Abstract

Objectives: The study was carried out to ascertain the cosmetic outcome of corrective surgery for pectus deformity and to determine the morbidity associated with it.
Study Design: Quasi-experimental study.
Place and Duration of Study: The study was conducted in CMH Rawalpindi and CMH Quetta from 2007 to 2012.
Methodology: Total number of cases operated for chest deformity was 37. Modified Welch procedure with sub perichondrial resection was done with a strut of prolene mesh in a majority of excavatum repairs and k wires in few. Pectoroplasty was subsequently carried out in all patients. Midline incision was made in a majority of patients. Submammary incision was made in some female patients with a lower deformity due to better cosmetic outcome. Inclusion criterion was patients with chest deformity without any cardiac and spinal deformity.
Results: Age range was between 4 years to 12 years with mean age of 8 ± 2.3 years. Twenty four (65%) deformities were of excavatum and 9 (24%) were of carinatum type. Four (11%) cases were of unilateral asymmetrical deformity. Mean operating time was 95 ± 11 minutes. Transfusion was required in only 1 (3%) of the cases. There was no perioperative mortality. Four (11%) patients had formation of seroma and 3 (8%) developed pneumothorax which was aspirated without placement of chest tube. Two (5%) had surgical site infection. Fifteen (41%) patients were satisfied and 21 (57%) reported excellent results.
Conclusion: Chest deformity correction is safe and effective procedure with acceptable cosmetic results. It is easy to perform and improves self image of the suffering individual.