What Are Chest Wall Deformities?
Chest wall deformities, commonly known among the public as "cobbler's chest" (Pectus excavatum) and "pigeon chest" (Pectus carinatum), are predominantly congenital structural disorders that may show a hereditary pattern. These deformities become particularly pronounced during adolescence and, in addition to their aesthetic appearance, may give rise to significant physical and psychosocial issues such as chest pain, shortness of breath, decreased exercise capacity, early fatigue, and loss of self-confidence.
Minimally Invasive Surgery: The Nuss Procedure
Whereas open surgical methods requiring extensive incisions were applied for treatment in the past, minimally invasive (closed) surgical methods have come to the forefront today owing to technological advancements. In the Nuss procedure, one such method, a specially designed support (stabilizer) bar is placed behind the chest wall in order to reconstruct the natural anatomical structure of the rib cage. Owing to this operation, which is performed through small incisions, patients experience less pain, have a shorter hospital stay, and are able to return to their daily lives more rapidly.
Non-Surgical Treatment Options
On the other hand, successful treatment outcomes can be achieved without the need for surgery, through the use of vacuum devices and compression orthoses, particularly in mild and moderate chest wall deformities in patients aged 16 and under.
Thoracic Surgery Services at Our Hospital
The Department of Thoracic Surgery of Adıyaman Training and Research Hospital continues to successfully apply both surgical and non-surgical current treatment methods in the management of chest wall deformities.
In this context, the Nuss procedure, a closed surgical method, was successfully performed on our patient diagnosed with Pectus excavatum (cobbler's chest) by Specialist Physician Ömer Cenap Gülyüz and Specialist Physician Samed Baloğlu. The operation was completed without complication, and our patient's treatment and follow-up process is being successfully continued.
Institutional Support and Vision
The successful implementation of modern surgical and non-surgical methods used in the diagnosis and treatment of chest wall deformities at our hospital is made possible through the vision of Chief Physician Assist. Prof. Mehmet Tepe for enhancing quality in health services, and the strong support of the hospital administration. Through the institutional support provided by our Chief Physician Assist. Prof. Mehmet Tepe and the management team, our Department of Thoracic Surgery continues to bring current technologies and scientific approaches together with our patients.
Our Commitment to Quality Healthcare
As Adıyaman Training and Research Hospital, we remain committed to providing our region with quality healthcare services through our strong administrative approach, experienced healthcare staff, and contemporary treatment methods, while resolutely continuing our efforts to enhance the quality of life of our patients.