Which technique is the traditional older approach for correcting Pectus excavatum?

Which technique is the traditional older approach for correcting Pectus excavatum?

• A. Ravitch operation
• B. Nuss procedure
• C. Median sternotomy
• D. Thoracoplasty

Answer: (A)

The traditional older approach to correcting pectus excavatum is the Ravitch operation. This method surgically releases the chest wall by removing the abnormal costal cartilages that pull the sternum inward, then mobilizes and repositioning the sternum to a more normal anterior position, sometimes with a sternal osteotomy to help hold it in place. It was the standard procedure for many decades before newer, less invasive techniques were developed. The Nuss procedure is the modern alternative that uses a curved steel bar placed under the sternum to pop it outward, avoiding extensive cartilage resection. Median sternotomy is simply opening the chest to access the heart or other structures, not a corrective technique for pectus excavatum. Thoracoplasty involves removing portions of ribs to collapse parts of the chest wall and is largely historical for TB-related deformities, not the typical repair for pectus excavatum.

The traditional older approach to correcting pectus excavatum is the Ravitch operation. This method surgically releases the chest wall by removing the abnormal costal cartilages that pull the sternum inward, then mobilizes and repositioning the sternum to a more normal anterior position, sometimes with a sternal osteotomy to help hold it in place. It was the standard procedure for many decades before newer, less invasive techniques were developed.

The Nuss procedure is the modern alternative that uses a curved steel bar placed under the sternum to pop it outward, avoiding extensive cartilage resection. Median sternotomy is simply opening the chest to access the heart or other structures, not a corrective technique for pectus excavatum. Thoracoplasty involves removing portions of ribs to collapse parts of the chest wall and is largely historical for TB-related deformities, not the typical repair for pectus excavatum.