What is modified Ravitch procedure?

The modified Ravitch procedure requires exposure of the sternum and surrounding area, removal of abnormal cartilages, and fixation of the sternum in a more normal position with a metal bar. This metal bar remains in place for at least a year, and then is removed with another operation.

How long does it take to recover from Ravitch procedure?

It may take 6 months or more for your child to return to all activities he or she did before the surgery. For about 6 weeks after the surgery, your child should: Take all medicines as prescribed by the surgeon. Do all breathing exercises (this helps prevent infection).

How painful is pectus Carinatum surgery?

Chest pain. This pain may be intermittent and may or may not be associated with exercise. Although the exact cause of the pain is unknown, almost two thirds of patients whopresent for surgical pectus excavatum repair have a history of chest pain.

Is pectus surgery painful?

The pectus repair is a painful procedure. Length of stay is dictated by postoperative pain management. Following the operation, most children stay in the hospital for approximately 5 days. An epidural catheter, placed in the back, will be used to give continuous pain medication.

What type of surgeon performs Nuss procedure?

For severe cases of pectus excavatum, surgery to expand the chest wall can eliminate many symptoms. The pediatric surgeons at CHOC are experts at performing the minimally invasive Nuss procedure to repair pectus excavatum.

How long is recovery from Nuss procedure?

Every patient is different but on average it takes about 4 to 6 weeks to recover from the surgery though it will take up to 12 weeks before you return to full and normal physical activities including sports.

How much does pectus excavatum surgery cost?

Cost of SIMPLE Pectus Surgery The cost for the SIMPLE Pectus surgery for pectus excavatum can vary from $15,000 to $25,000. This is considerably less than the cost of Nuss and Ravitch procedures since no hospital stay is needed.

Is pectus carinatum surgery risky?

The surgical repair of pectus carinatum, like other extensive surgeries, carries certain risks. While the Ravitch procedure is also safe and effective, complications can occur, including: Pneumothorax (a buildup of air or gas in the pleural space around the lung) Bleeding.

Is Nuss procedure painful?

Pain is common after a Nuss procedure. Therefore, you will remain at the hospital for two to three days for effective pain management.

How do you sleep after Nuss procedure?

It is okay if your child wants to sleep on his or her side if it is comfortable. Some children may feel more comfortable sleeping in a recliner chair the first few days after surgery. You will be given a card that says your child has had a NUSS procedure and has metal in the body.

What do you need to know about modified Ravitch?

Modified Ravitch Procedure The modified Ravitch procedure requires exposure of the sternum and surrounding area, removal of abnormal cartilages, and fixation of the sternum in a more normal position with a metal bar. This metal bar remains in place for at least a year, and then is removed with another operation.

Where is the incision made for Ravitch surgery?

The procedure is carried out under General Anaesthetic (GA, asleep) and an incision is made at the front of the chest vertically or horizontally. The soft tissues and muscle are then lifted off the rib cage and the breastbone exposing the cartilage connection.

How is a modified Ravitch done for pectus excavatum?

Most surgeons when performing a modified Ravitch operation for pectus excavatum place something behind the sternum to ‘hold’ it forward, either a metal bar or some form of absorbable material so avoiding the need for a second (albeit small) operation to remove the bar after about 1 year.

What did Dr Ravitch do to his chest?

First described by Dr Mark Ravitch in 1949 the original operation involved a cut at the front of the chest and lifting the chest wall muscles exposing the breastbone and rib cage particularly the costal cartilage.