Our Summary

This research paper discusses a new technology that assists surgeons in correcting a chest wall deformity known as Pectus arcuatum. The technology is a template created through a computer-aided design (CAD) using the patient’s CT scans. This template shows the optimal angle at which the surgeon should cut the chest bone.

The template also includes a safety block to protect the layer of tissue at the back of the chest bone. This allows surgeons to make precise cuts without causing damage to this tissue.

The study showed that this technology successfully helps to realign the chest bone, resulting in a better cosmetic outcome. The average operation time was 110 minutes, and patients stayed in the hospital for an average of 4 days.

In conclusion, the use of this CAD template can simplify this complex surgical procedure, making it safer and reducing operation times and hospital stays. Further research is needed to study the long-term effects on patients.

FAQs

  1. What is the new technology discussed in the research paper for correcting Pectus arcuatum?
  2. How does the CAD template assist surgeons in performing a sternotomy?
  3. What impact does the use of the CAD template have on the operation time and hospital stay duration for patients?

Doctor’s Tip

A tip a doctor might tell a patient about sternotomy is to follow their post-operative care instructions carefully, including avoiding heavy lifting and strenuous activities for a certain period of time. It is also important to attend all follow-up appointments to monitor healing and address any concerns. It is important to communicate openly with your healthcare team about any pain or discomfort experienced during the recovery process.

Suitable For

Patients with Pectus arcuatum, a chest wall deformity, are typically recommended sternotomy. This condition causes the breastbone to protrude outward, giving the chest a curved appearance. Sternotomy is a surgical procedure that involves making an incision in the chest bone to correct the deformity and realign the chest wall.

Patients with severe Pectus arcuatum that causes difficulty breathing, chest pain, or other health issues may be recommended sternotomy to improve their quality of life. Additionally, patients who have not seen improvement with non-surgical treatments may also be candidates for this procedure.

The use of CAD technology to create a template for sternotomy can benefit patients by providing a precise guide for the surgeon to follow during the operation. This can result in a better cosmetic outcome and reduce the risk of complications during surgery.

Overall, sternotomy is typically recommended for patients with Pectus arcuatum who are experiencing significant symptoms and have not seen improvement with other treatments. The use of CAD technology in this procedure can help improve outcomes for these patients and make the surgery safer and more efficient.

Timeline

Before sternotomy:

  • Patient undergoes a CT scan to assess the chest wall deformity
  • Surgeons plan the surgery based on the CT scan results
  • Patient may undergo pre-operative testing and preparation
  • Patient is brought into the operating room and placed under anesthesia

After sternotomy:

  • Surgeon uses the CAD template to guide the precise cuts on the chest bone
  • Surgery is performed to correct the chest wall deformity
  • Patient is monitored in the recovery room post-surgery
  • Patient is transferred to a hospital room for further monitoring and recovery
  • Patient is discharged from the hospital after a few days of recovery

Overall, the patient goes through a series of pre-operative steps before sternotomy, followed by the surgical correction of the chest wall deformity, and then post-operative care and recovery before being discharged from the hospital.

What to Ask Your Doctor

  1. Can this technology be used for other chest wall deformities, or is it specifically designed for Pectus arcuatum?

  2. What are the potential risks or complications associated with using this CAD template during a sternotomy?

  3. How does the use of this technology impact the overall success rate of sternotomy procedures?

  4. Are there any specific criteria or qualifications a patient must meet in order to be eligible for this type of surgery using the CAD template?

  5. How does the cost of using this technology compare to traditional sternotomy procedures?

  6. What is the recovery process like for patients who undergo sternotomy with the assistance of the CAD template?

  7. Are there any long-term effects or considerations patients should be aware of after undergoing sternotomy with the CAD template?

  8. How many surgeries have been performed using this technology, and what have been the outcomes for patients?

  9. Are there any alternative treatment options for Pectus arcuatum or other chest wall deformities that do not require sternotomy?

  10. How can patients prepare for surgery using the CAD template, and what can they expect during the post-operative period?

Reference

Authors: Leng S, Bici K, Facchini F, Volpe Y, Uccheddu F, Furferi R, Governi L, Carfagni M, Ghionzoli M, Messineo A. Journal: Ann Thorac Surg. 2019 Apr;107(4):1253-1258. doi: 10.1016/j.athoracsur.2018.10.057. Epub 2018 Nov 30. PMID: 30508532