Chest Wall Deformities : Patient & Family Resources : Questions and Answers

The following are answers to some of the most frequently asked questions about corrective surgery for pectus excavatum using the minimally invasive technique (also known as the Nuss Operation):

• How does the minimally-invasive approach differ from the old surgical repair?
  
  
• What type of patient should be considered for this operation? What are the indications for surgery?
  
  
• What is the chest index?
  
  
• Is this a cosmetic operation?
  
  
• Is there an ideal age group for the new operation?
  
  
• How does this minimally-invasive procedure work?
  
  
• What holds the pectus bar in place?
  
  
• What kind of anesthesia is used? Is it painful?
  
  
• How long will the bar stay in place? When and how is it removed?
  
  
• Are there common problems or complications associated with this procedure?
  
  
• What about uncommon or rare problems?
  
  
• How long does the patient stay in the hospital after surgery?
  
  
• Are there limitations after surgery?
  
  
• How do the kids who have had the Nuss repair feel about it?