Frequent Questions
Pectus Excavatum Questions and Answers (FAQs) is an informative space for the patient. Here you will find the most frequently asked questions and answers to easily understand everything about the corrective treatment of Pectus Excavatum with Pectus Up. A section designed to guide you and help you solve your doubts about the surgical treatment of Pectus Excavatum.
PECTUS EXCAVATUM
There is a genetic predisposition to this type of chest wall deformity.
However, the pattern of inheritance is not fully defined and many people develop this deformity without any family history.
Most cases appear in isolation, although in some patients it may be associated with hereditary connective tissue disorders. For this reason, each case should be assessed individually.
According to the available scientific literature, the most favorable stage for the surgical correction of pectus excavatum is usually during adolescence, approximately between 12 and 16 years of age.
During this period, the chest wall still retains greater flexibility, which facilitates the remodeling of the thorax and may favor recovery after surgery. It also tends to coincide with a stage in which the deformity may become more noticeable due to growth and in which the psychological impact can be significant.
That said, thanks to the ease of the Pectus Up technique, adult patients can also benefit from surgical treatment with this new technique.
For pediatric patients, surgical repair of Pectus Excavatum was previously recommended in symptomatic cases as soon as possible. However, it has recently been shown that the results are not as positive in very young children and, for this reason, it is currently recommended to delay the age of surgery, establishing a minimum age of 8 years.
Based on an individual medical assessment, exercise can form part of the management of pectus excavatum to improve general physical condition, promote proper posture and enhance the mobility of the rib cage.
Stretching, postural strengthening and breathing exercises can help improve chest expansion and functional respiratory capacity. Activities such as swimming can be beneficial as they combine cardiovascular work, breathing control and muscle strengthening.
However, the type, intensity and frequency of exercise should be adapted to each patient according to their age and the characteristics of the deformity, based on the guidance of a specialist.
Upper trunk (rib cage) exercises can serve as a complement to improve breathing and strength-endurance, but they do not correct the malformation. Muscle-building exercises can be performed, although care must be taken, as they can sometimes make the sinking of the chest even more noticeable. We recommend seeking the advice of specialists in this field.
The best option is, without a doubt, stretching exercises, which help achieve as upright a posture as possible.
It should not be forgotten that warm-up exercises are essential for good physical adaptation and to avoid overstretching that could lead to injury.
POST INTERVENTION
You must be careful with personal hygiene to ensure proper wound control and avoid possible infections. The wound cannot be touched or wet. In addition, the dressing must not be lifted until the first check-up with the surgeon. It is recommended to practice deep breathing exercises several times a day.
Good posture should be maintained. Abnormal or rigid postures that may a priori avoid pain should not be adopted, since they can be the cause of other later alterations. It is not advisable to remain in a decubitus position (lying down) for a long time.
It is advisable to sleep on your back and avoid lying on your side during sleep (at least during the first month, if possible).
Avoid exposure to risky situations, crowded environments and violent physical contact.
Wide movements of the torso should be avoided, as well as abrupt rotations of the torso, lifting weights or carrying backpacks during the first month.
What is the size of the scar remaining after surgical repair of Pectus Excavatum with the Pectus Up?
The usual size of the scar is about 3-5 cm, approximately the width of the implant.
If the wound undergoes any change, such as suppuration, swelling and/or opening of any area of the wound, the surgeon should be consulted.
The postoperative period is usually not very painful and is mostly managed with minor analgesics (ibuprofen, paracetamol).
After medical discharge, it is important to follow the specialist’s instructions and adhere to the prescribed analgesic treatment plan to control pain during recovery.
If pain appears, the patient should only take the medication recommended by the surgical team, following the indicated doses and schedules. If the pain does not improve, increases, or if any symptom appears that causes concern, it is important to contact the specialist to assess the situation.
Each patient evolves differently, so pain management should be adapted individually throughout the recovery process.
The concept of “normal life” may vary from one person to another. In general terms, daily life is understood as carrying out social, family, work or academic activities with a low to moderate level of physical activity, avoiding those involving high risk or intense effort.
After the surgical repair of pectus excavatum using the Pectus Up method, the patient is advised to rest for approximately one week after the intervention. Afterwards, they may gradually resume their daily activities, always following the surgeon’s instructions and respecting their individual recovery plan.
Thanks to the low level of pain and the good recovery, operated patients can usually return to their daily routine (school, work) within a relatively short time after the intervention, although this depends on the activity involved in their profession.
In general, it is advisable to wait between 2 and 3 weeks before returning to school or to sedentary jobs. For more active professions, it is recommended to consult the surgeon.
Sleep on your back and avoid lying on your side during sleep (at least during the first month, if possible).
The rest period is about one week after surgery.
This will consist of gradually resuming daily activities, maintaining good posture and avoiding movements that cause pain.
Refrain from sports activities during the three months following the operation, including weight lifting.
The patient will be able to go to class or to their usual work two to three weeks after the operation, as long as it does not involve sports activities, lifting weights or the use of backpacks, and always respecting the surgeon’s recommendations.
The implant can be removed from 2 years after the operation.
It will always depend on the evolution of each particular patient, and always at the surgeon’s discretion.
In child or adolescent patients, it will depend on the growth phase they are in (age, height, chest width) at the time of the operation and what changes they undergo in the 2 years that follow. An important fact is that Pectus Up never hinders the growth of the thorax.
If there are very significant changes in the person, it can be considered to modify the size of the implant for one adapted to the new size of the thorax. It is a very simple operation in which the sternal plate is kept in the thorax and therefore the bony area is not altered.
Once the implant has been removed, the patient can lead a normal social, academic and professional life.
As with other implants or osteosynthesis material made of medical stainless steel:
The implant or any of its components may loosen or shift.
Sensitivity reactions to metals or allergic reactions to the implant material may occur.
The patient may feel abnormal pain or a sensation of discomfort due to the presence of the implant.
Wound irritation or infection.
Seroma.
Visualization of the edges of the plate is not possible, as the plate is implanted subpectorally. In patients with pectoralis muscle involvement, each individual patient should be assessed before the intervention.
You can travel on vacation as long as you maintain good trunk posture, avoid exposing yourself to risky situations, have been discharged by the surgeon and have had your stitches removed.
Do not lift or hold suitcases, or lift weights, for at least one month.
Avoid crowded environments.
The device can give positive in the metal detector. It is advisable to carry a document from the manufacturer with the surgeon and hospital data indicating the presence of the metal implant in the thorax.
In patients with an implant for the correction of pectus excavatum, a computed tomography (CT) scan can be performed when clinically indicated. However, the presence of the implant may generate artifacts in the image, which can partially hinder the assessment of some structures of the thorax.
For this reason, it is important to inform the Radiology department in advance about the presence of the implant, so that the radiologist can apply the appropriate protocols and correctly interpret the scan.
Yes, in case of a life-threatening emergency requiring CPR, standard chest compression protocols should be followed.
The Pectus Up implant does not contraindicate or interfere with standard resuscitation techniques. As always, emergency responders should act according to standard medical guidelines.
Yes, but with caution. Defibrillation can be performed following standard procedures, although it is important to avoid placing the electrodes directly over the implant area.
After defibrillation, a medical evaluation is recommended to check the integrity and correct position of the implant.
PECTUS UP
There is no age limit, although the treatment should be performed as soon as possible, to avoid possible complications derived from the disease itself and possible psychological problems. Pectus Up is indicated both in children and adults, and thanks to the ease of the technique, patients have been operated on with good results at ages between 50 and 60, although these cases are exceptional. The surgical indication will always depend on the type and degree of the Pectus Excavatum and the morphology of the patient, and not so much on their age. It is advisable to evaluate the quality of the bone before surgery to detect possible fragility or osteoporosis in older patients.
The indication for surgical treatment with Pectus Up will be established after a clinical and technical assessment of the patient with pectus excavatum, provided that they meet the criteria and requirements described in the pectus excavatum treatment section of this website.
However, the final decision to perform the intervention rests with the specialist surgeon, after evaluating the individual characteristics of each patient, and must have the acceptance and informed consent of the patient.
Both mild and complex cases (asymmetries, sternal rotation) can be corrected with the Pectus Up with a high success rate, although it will always depend on each individual patient. The indication for surgical treatment of Pectus Excavatum, in general, will be conditioned by the physical or psychological criteria that justify the intervention, and the data extracted from a computerized tomography (CT). If the case is very mild, the indication for surgical intervention should be evaluated with your surgeon.
Yes. The Pectus Up system offers different plate and screw sizes designed to adapt to the anatomical characteristics of each patient and the degree of the pectus excavatum deformity.
The most suitable size and configuration is selected individually by the specialist surgeon, taking into account the technical specifications of Ventura Medical Technologies.
In addition to the different options available as standard, for those patients whose morphology does not adequately fit the standard sizes, the manufacture of customized (custom made) plates can be considered in order to achieve a solution adapted to their anatomical characteristics.
Since the first procedure with Pectus Up was performed in 2012, more than 500 interventions have been carried out to date in patients with pectus excavatum of different ages and degrees of complexity.
Some of the treated patients have wanted to share their personal experience through testimonials, available in the “Testimonials” section within the “Patients” area of this website.
Clinical experience with Pectus Up has been developed in numerous countries across all continents of the world.
For more information on the scientific evidence and communications related to this technology, please refer to the “Publications” section within the “News” area of this website. Likewise, new scientific publications by specialized centers with experience in the treatment of pectus excavatum are under development.
There is no age limit for recommending the intervention with Pectus Up. The final decision depends on multiple factors that the surgeon must assess, such as the patient’s anatomical structure, bone quality or the degree of severity of the Pectus Excavatum, among others.
The first step is the assessment by the specialist surgeon, who will determine the most appropriate therapeutic option for each patient based on their clinical and anatomical characteristics.
The suitability of treatment with Pectus Up is evaluated by analyzing the chest CT images and assessing different anatomical parameters, such as the characteristics of the sternum, bone density and other factors relevant to surgical planning. This evaluation makes it possible to determine whether the patient is a candidate for treatment with Pectus Up or whether, due to their particular characteristics, another therapeutic approach may be more appropriate.
The medical examinations and tests prior to surgery are the usual ones for any surgical procedure and will be indicated by the responsible medical team according to the needs of each patient.
If there is no surgeon who is monitoring the evolution of your Pectus Excavatum, we can guide you, according to your preferences of region or country, on which are the best professionals who can assess your case.
These surgeons have received specialized training in the technique and at all times are updated on all developments. The company offers personalized support to the professional before, during and after surgery, as required.
In addition, the company informs the patient or family of all aspects that may be of interest to them before surgery, even if it is not performed or if another technique is chosen.
Yes, without any problem. The Pectus Up can improve the aesthetic perception of the patient by also improving the sinking of the central area of the chest and its asymmetry.
Pectus Up is a technique for repairing the sunken chest that acts structurally on the chest wall, and is not a merely aesthetic treatment. Through an extrathoracic approach, the intervention is performed without the need to access the thoracic cavity or come into direct contact with the internal organs.
The procedure makes it possible to remodel the chest wall and correct the deformity in a stable way, both during the intervention and throughout the entire implantation process.
It is performed in a single surgical intervention and, as a minimally invasive technique, it is associated with a fast recovery, with postoperative pain manageable with minor analgesics.
In certain cases, the use of the vacuum bell could contribute to giving more flexibility to the thorax and therefore facilitate the elevation of the sternum during the intervention with Pectus Up.
Treatment with Pectus Up is not recommended in patients who, due to their clinical or personal conditions, are unable to properly follow the instructions and care established by the surgeon during the recovery process.
Likewise, it should be carefully assessed or may be contraindicated in patients with diseases or conditions that could compromise the correct fixation of the implant, bone quality or healing, such as certain pathologies affecting bone density or bone tissue metabolism.
The indication for treatment must always be established through an individualized assessment by the specialist surgeon, taking into account the clinical situation, anatomical characteristics and expectations of each patient.
With the implantation of a Pectus Up, certain cardiac disorders derived from the sinking of the sternum could improve, especially in those cases in which there is an oppression or displacement of the heart. Respiratory disorders derived from the depression of the chest wall may also improve.
With purely aesthetic techniques, and therefore not reconstructive, other disorders cannot be improved.
Yes, there is experience with Pectus Up implantation in these cases.
Patients usually stay in the hospital an average of 2 days after the surgical repair, depending on the age and the degree of the Pectus Excavatum.
No. The Pectus Up technique is a minimally invasive procedure for the correction of pectus excavatum performed through an extrathoracic approach, without the need to access the thoracic cavity or the possibility of injuring the internal organs.
In addition, the procedure is designed to promote a faster recovery, with less surgical aggression on the tissues and adequate postoperative pain control based on minor analgesia.
As with any surgical intervention performed under general anesthesia, possible associated complications cannot be completely ruled out.
It does not involve serious risks. The minor risks are the same as those associated with any implant or osteosynthesis material.
Seat belts are an essential safety measure when travelling by car. However, after Pectus Up surgery, the chest needs time to adapt to the implant.
During the first 6 weeks after the intervention, it is advisable to avoid car travel whenever possible, as the seat belt may cause discomfort or exert pressure on the chest while the implant is stabilising. If travelling by car is unavoidable, it is recommended to do so as a passenger, on short journeys, and to place a cushion or a soft pad between the seat belt and the chest.
As recovery progresses, the seat belt can be used again, following the surgeon’s instructions. In the long term, its use is completely safe and does not pose any risk to the implant once it is fully stabilised.
PHYSICAL EXERCISE
Relative rest, trying to avoid movements that cause pain, and gradually resume daily activities.
Perform gentle breathing exercises on a daily basis, for example, breathe in gently until the chest is completely full, then breathe out slowly until the lungs are empty.
Until the first month, you can move your trunk and raise your arms, but very gently and gradually, acclimatizing to the new situation successively and continuously, without causing pain.
Always depending on the evolution of each patient, and taking into account that recovery is faster the younger the person is, it is possible to return to school, university or the usual job between 2 and 3 weeks after surgery, if the surgeon considers it appropriate and the patient feels well.
Sports activity in general can be resumed between three and six months after the intervention, depending on the type of sport. However, high-risk sports or those involving abrupt torso movements —such as golf, tennis or bench exercises, among others— are not recommended until after 6 months.
With any implant (whether for reconstruction or aesthetics), it must be taken into account that wide movements of the thorax after surgery can compromise the proper fixation of the implant.
Metal fixation devices or thoracic implants in general are not capable of withstanding the levels of activity or the loads that a normal, healthy chest wall can tolerate.
If the instructions recommended by the surgeon are not followed, the Pectus Up may loosen or shift if it is subjected to weights or loads or to very intense activities, or if the patient suffers any trauma to the thorax.
Failure to follow postoperative instructions may result in complications. See the section on complications.
You will be able to practice sports activities after three months, depending on the sport practiced. Sports such as golf, tennis or bench exercises will require a little more time, around 6 months, since they involve a wide movement of the torso. It will always depend on the surgeon’s consent.
Sports activity at school can be resumed after 3 months, depending on the type of activity. It is advisable to consult the surgeon in case he/she considers it appropriate.
It is important to emphasize that children and adolescents should not engage in any type of intense physical activity during the first 3 months since, as they feel no pain and recover very quickly, they may not be aware of the importance of following the instructions. Extreme caution should be exercised in their school and extracurricular activities, with direct supervision by family members and teachers.
Avoid violent physical contact. Rotations of the torso, lifting weights and carrying backpacks should be avoided during the first month.
Intense sports activities should not be started before six months after the intervention, and sports involving torso movement —such as golf, swimming, tennis, weightlifting, bench exercises, etc.— or contact sports such as karate should be avoided, depending on the condition of the thorax and the surgeon’s approval.
Any contact sport should be avoided during the first six months, at least, because severe trauma to the anterior thorax can lead to severe intrathoracic injuries. In case of doubt, always consult the surgeon.
NUTRITION
A balanced diet can help the body prepare for surgery and support its natural recovery processes. A good nutritional status provides the energy and nutrients needed to maintain muscle mass, repair tissue and cope with rehabilitation. However, nutrition does not replace surgical treatment or the medical team’s instructions.
Going into surgery with a good nutritional status can provide a stronger foundation for recovery. This is especially relevant for patients with low body weight, low muscle mass or difficulty building strength, as they may have smaller energy reserves and a lower tolerance to exercise.
Protein contributes to the maintenance and formation of muscle tissue. After surgery, it also plays a role in the body’s natural tissue repair and healing processes. For this reason, it may be advisable to include a source of protein in main meals, following the guidance of a healthcare professional.
Common sources of protein include eggs, chicken, turkey, fish, Greek yoghurt, cottage cheese, legumes and tofu, always adapting the choice to each person’s preferences and any dietary restrictions.
Yes. Carbohydrates provide energy for everyday activities, exercise, strength training and physical recovery. They can be obtained from foods such as rice, pasta, potatoes, oats, wholegrain bread and fruit.
During the first few weeks, nutrition should focus on supporting the body’s recovery. It is important to maintain an adequate protein intake, drink enough water, eat regularly and respect rest periods.
At this stage, the priority is not to improve sports performance, but to support tissue repair and gradually regain physical wellbeing.
There is no general supplementation recommendation that applies to all patients. Supplements should only be used when a doctor or registered dietitian considers them necessary, after assessing the person’s diet and overall health.
Any significant changes to the diet should be discussed with the medical team and, when necessary, with a qualified registered dietitian. These professionals can design a plan tailored to the patient’s needs before and after surgery.
Do you have any other questions?
Responsible information
Pectus Excavatum Questions and Answers (FAQs): Did you know that Pectus Up is a corrective solution aimed at prioritizing patient health and safety? Therefore, in this section, the information provided is not intended to replace in any way the advice that a doctor or other specialist health professional can provide.
It is always advisable to follow the surgeon’s instructions at the time of discharge and during medical visits and to consult an expert professional to obtain the information you need or that is most convenient for you. For more details go to LEGAL NOTICE AND PRIVACY POLICY.
