How long will the pectus excavatum steel bar be removed?
In correcting pectus excavatum deformity, a steel plate is used either behind or in front of the sternum to lift the indented sternum by nailing it up or suspending it with steel wires. Theoretically, the longer the steel plate is left in place, the more stable the correction of the deformation. However, if the steel plate is left in place for too long, since it is under stress, it may produce more scar adhesions with the indented sternum and surrounding chest wall muscles, and even form calcified bone scabs. Removing it at this point can cause more damage to the patient’s chest, arms, or sternum. Therefore, theoretically, it is best to remove the steel plate for pectus excavatum after two to three years. For children under ten, it is recommended to remove it after two years; for older children or adults, it is recommended to remove it after three years.
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