Pectus excavatum, often referred to as “sunken chest”, is a condition where the breastbone is concave, causing a noticeable chest wall deformity. While mild cases generally do not cause significant health problems, severe pectus excavatum may affect breathing and heart function. For those experiencing cosmetic concerns or health issues such as difficulty breathing or exercise intolerance, pectus excavatum surgery offers a solution.
What is Pectus Excavatum and Why Consider Surgery?
The causes of pectus excavatum are currently unknown. Mild pectus excavatum is generally not a cause for serious health problems or symptoms, though it may affect appearance and quality of life. However, in severe cases, the sunken chest wall can compress the heart and lungs, causing palpitations, shortness of breath, and difficulty breathing. Patients may also experience loss of appetite, indigestion, delayed growth and development, frequent upper respiratory infections, and increased psychological stress.
It is worth noting that pectus excavatum can also be associated with scoliosis, which is more common in patients with severe deformities or those who have had the condition for many years. Many patients seek surgery to improve their quality of life, whether for cosmetic reasons or to alleviate breathing problems. The Wang procedure offers a modern, minimally invasive solution for this condition.
The Wang Procedure vs. Traditional Methods
The Wang procedure, pioneered by Dr Wenlin Wang in 2018, revolutionized the treatment of pectus excavatum. Unlike the traditional Nuss procedure, which involves inserting bars into the chest cavity, the Wang procedure places a bar on the surface of the concave sternum, minimizing trauma and eliminating the risk of cardiac injury. This method is especially advantageous for younger patients, including those under the age of 5, and offers a quicker recovery with less recurrence of deformities.
Why Choose The Institute of Chest Wall Surgery (ICWS) for Your Surgery?
The Institute of Chest Wall Surgery (ICWS) specializes in pectus excavatum surgery, particularly the Wang procedure. With over 500 successful Wang procedures performed, ICWS achieves excellent outcomes by using advanced techniques and rich experience. The team of experts is committed to providing personalized care while prioritizing patient safety and recovery.
