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Does insurance pay for pectus excavatum surgery?

The answer to whether insurance pays for pectus excavatum surgery depends on various factors, including the specific insurance plan and the severity of the condition.

Pectus excavatum, also known as sunken chest, is a congenital deformity that causes the breastbone to push inward, resulting in a noticeable depression in the chest. It can affect the appearance and function of the chest, causing breathing difficulties, chest pain, and reduced lung capacity.

Treatment options for pectus excavatum include surgical and non-surgical methods. The most commonly used surgical method is called the Nuss procedure, which involves inserting a metal bar underneath the sternum to reposition and support the chest wall.

The cost of pectus excavatum surgery can vary depending on the type of procedure, the surgeon’s experience, and the geographic location of the surgery. In general, the cost of surgery can be very high and can range from $30,000 to $50,000 or more.

Most insurance plans cover the cost of pectus excavatum surgery, but the specifics can vary depending on the plan. If the surgery is deemed medically necessary, the insurance company is more likely to cover the cost. The insurance company may require additional medical records and diagnostic tests to determine the severity of the condition and the need for surgery.

Some insurance plans may place restrictions on the type of pectus excavatum surgery that is covered, such as only covering the Nuss procedure or requiring the patient to undergo non-surgical treatments before surgery. It is important to thoroughly review the insurance plan’s policy regarding pectus excavatum surgery before scheduling the procedure.

Insurance may cover the cost of pectus excavatum surgery, but the specifics depend on the plan and the severity of the condition. It is important to consult with your surgeon and insurance company to determine the best course of action and the associated costs.

Is it worth getting pectus excavatum surgery?

Pectus excavatum, commonly referred to as sunken or funnel chest, is a congenital chest wall deformity that affects roughly one in every 1000 individuals. While many people with pectus excavatum experience no symptoms, others may face physical and psychological issues like a reduced lung capacity, decreased exercise tolerance, and poor self-image.

Surgery is one option for treating pectus excavatum. The most common surgical procedure for the condition is the Nuss procedure, which involves inserting a metal bar beneath the sternum to lift the chest. Alternatively, the Ravitch procedure involves removing cartilage and ribs and relocating the sternum.

Whether or not surgery for pectus excavatum is worth it depends on numerous factors, including the severity of the case, the individual’s overall health and lifestyle, and their goals for the surgery.

If an individual’s pectus excavatum is mild and does not impact their daily life, they may not need surgery. However, if the chest deformity is severe and causing physical complications, such as reduced lung capacity, rib pain, or heart problems, surgery may be recommended.

Additionally, if an individual is experiencing psychological distress from their pectus excavatum, surgery may be an option to improve their quality of life. A sunken chest can lead to poor self-image, social anxiety, and depression for some individuals. Surgery can improve the appearance of the chest and help to boost self-esteem.

It is important to note that surgery for pectus excavatum can come with risks and requires an extensive recovery period. The Nuss procedure, for example, typically requires a hospital stay of three to six days and up to six weeks of limited physical activity afterward. Additionally, there is a risk of infection, bleeding, and damage to the lungs or heart during the surgery.

The decision to undergo pectus excavatum surgery is complex and should be made in consultation with a qualified healthcare professional. Surgery may be necessary to address physical complications and improve overall health and wellbeing for some individuals with severe pectus excavatum. For others, non-surgical options like exercise or physical therapy may be enough to address any symptoms.

the decision to undergo surgery should be based on an individual’s unique circumstances and goals.

What happens if you don’t treat pectus excavatum?

Pectus excavatum, also known as funnel chest, is a congenital deformity in which the breastbone (sternum) and the ribs are abnormally structured. It occurs due to the growth of an abnormally shaped rib cage in the chest, which makes the breastbone sink inward, creating a funnel-like shape.

If left untreated, pectus excavatum may cause several physical and psychological problems that could significantly affect an individual’s quality of life. Some of these complications include:

1. Breathing difficulties: Pectus excavatum can compress the lungs, which can result in breathing difficulties such as shortness of breath, wheezing, and chronic coughing. In severe cases, it can lead to recurrent lung infections, pneumonia, and other respiratory problems.

2. Cardiovascular problems: Due to the compression of the lungs, the heart has to work harder to pump oxygenated blood throughout the body. This may result in an enlarged heart, arrhythmias, or even heart failure in severe cases.

3. Physical limitations: Individuals with pectus excavatum may find it challenging to perform physical activities, such as sports and exercise, due to shortness of breath and low endurance.

4. Psychological impact: The stigma associated with a visible chest deformity can cause psychological distress, affecting self-esteem, body image, and mental well-being.

5. Scoliosis: Scoliosis, a condition where the spine curves sideways, can develop in individuals with pectus excavatum if left untreated for a long time.

All of these complications can significantly impact an individual’s quality of life, leading to health problems and further complications if left untreated. Therefore, it is crucial to diagnose and treat pectus excavatum early on to prevent the progression of the condition and its complications.

The treatment options for pectus excavatum vary from non-surgical to surgical methods. The non-surgical methods include wearing braces or using a vacuum bell device, which aims to remodel the chest’s shape gradually. Surgical procedures such as the Nuss procedure or Ravitch procedure may be considered for severe cases.

These surgeries involve reshaping the chest and correcting any underlying rib abnormalities, improving lung function and physical appearance, and enhancing overall quality of life.

Not treating pectus excavatum can lead to serious physical and psychological complications, affecting an individual’s quality of life. Therefore, it is important to seek immediate medical attention to diagnose and treat it appropriately to prevent further progression of the condition and its complications.

Does pectus excavatum benefit anything?

Pectus excavatum is a chest deformity that results in a sunken or caved-in chest appearance. This condition may cause physical and emotional discomfort for some individuals. However, there are some potential benefits to having pectus excavatum.

One potential benefit of pectus excavatum is that it can improve lung function. Studies have shown that individuals with pectus excavatum may have increased lung capacity and improved oxygen uptake compared to those without the condition. This may be due to the altered chest shape, which allows for more efficient air flow within the lungs.

Another potential benefit of pectus excavatum is that it may enhance athletic performance in some individuals. The altered chest shape may provide a biomechanical advantage for certain sports, such as swimming or distance running. The increased lung capacity and improved oxygen uptake may also contribute to better endurance and performance.

Additionally, some individuals with pectus excavatum may experience psychological benefits from their condition. For example, some people report feeling unique or special because of their chest deformity, which can boost self-esteem and confidence. Others may view their condition as a symbol of resilience and strength, having overcome physical adversity.

However, it is important to note that not all individuals with pectus excavatum will experience these potential benefits. Many people with this condition may still experience physical discomfort, such as chest pain or shortness of breath. They may also face psychological challenges, such as social stigma or body image concerns.

Overall, while there may be some potential benefits to having pectus excavatum, it is a complex condition that often requires medical attention and may cause physical and emotional discomfort. It is important for individuals with this condition to work with their healthcare providers to manage any symptoms or complications and address any psychological concerns.

Does pectus excavatum come back after surgery?

Pectus excavatum is a chest deformity that causes a depression or sunken appearance of the chest wall. The condition is typically identified during childhood or adolescence when the chest starts to take shape. Although the condition doesn’t usually cause any serious medical problems, mild cases might affect lung function or reduce exercise tolerance.

As a result, some people with pectus excavatum might opt for surgery to correct the cosmetic appearance of their chest or to address health concerns.

But, one of the most common questions people ask is whether pectus excavatum can come back after surgery. The short answer is that recurrence of pectus excavatum after surgery is rare. However, like any surgery, complications can arise, and the success of the procedure also depends on the severity of the condition and how well it was addressed during surgery.

Several surgical techniques can be used to treat pectus excavatum, including the Nuss and Ravitch procedures. The Nuss procedure is a minimally invasive technique that involves insertion of a curved metal bar underneath the sternum to push it outward, while the Ravitch procedure involves removing a wedge of cartilage from the chest wall and repairing the sternum.

Both procedures have been shown to be effective in correcting the deformity and improving lung function and exercise tolerance.

In general, the risk for recurrence of pectus excavatum after surgery is low. In some cases, however, the bar used to fix the chest might shift, leading to a return of the depression. This is more common in patients who are very thin or who have a longer bar inserted in their chest. Also, it is important to note that even when the surgery is successful, there can be some degree of asymmetry in the chest wall.

To minimize the risk of recurrence, it is important to choose an experienced surgeon who has performed many pectus excavatum surgeries. Additionally, following a proper post-operative care regimen is critical. Patients should follow the surgeon’s instructions on how to care for the incision site and refrain from heavy lifting or strenuous exercise in the weeks following surgery.

With proper care, the risk of recurrence of pectus excavatum after surgery can be minimized, and most patients can expect to have lasting results.

How long does it take to fully recover from pectus excavatum surgery?

Pectus excavatum surgery is a complex surgical treatment that is performed to correct a chest abnormality where the sternum and rib cage grow abnormally, leading to a sunken chest. The surgery involves making an incision in the chest wall, removing portions of the cartilage or ribs, and then inserting a metal bar to hold the chest in a normal position.

The recovery time from pectus excavatum surgery may vary depending on individual factors such as age, overall health, and the extent of the condition. Generally, the recovery period takes about six to eight weeks. During this time, patients may experience pain, discomfort, and fatigue, which may limit their ability to perform regular activities.

In the first few days after surgery, patients are typically monitored in the hospital to ensure that there are no complications. Pain medication is also provided to manage any discomfort. Once the patient is discharged from the hospital, they will need to rest and take it easy for at least two to three weeks.

During this time, they should avoid physical activities that could strain or wound the incision.

After three weeks, patients may begin to engage in light activities such as walking and light stretching. As the weeks progress, physical activities can be gradually increased depending on how comfortably the patient feels. It is important to note that patients should follow their surgeon’s recovery instructions and avoid strenuous activities until they have fully healed.

Full recovery from pectus excavatum surgery can take up to six months to a year, during which time the patient will need to attend follow-up appointments with their surgeon to monitor their healing progress. During this time, the metal bar may gradually be removed, and patients will need to continue to avoid heavy lifting and strenuous activities until they are fully healed.

The recovery time for pectus excavatum surgery varies based on individual factors. However, it can generally take up to six to eight weeks, during which patients may experience pain, discomfort, and fatigue. It is essential to follow the surgeon’s instructions for recovery and avoid strenuous activities until fully healed.

With adequate rest and following a proper recovery plan, most patients can return to their regular activities following pectus excavatum surgery.

What is the age for Nuss procedure?

The Nuss procedure, also known as the minimally invasive repair of pectus excavatum, is a surgical technique used to correct a congenital deformity of the chest wall called pectus excavatum or sunken chest. This condition occurs when the breastbone or sternum is abnormally shaped, causing a depression in the middle or lower chest.

The age for Nuss procedure varies depending on several factors, including the severity of the condition, the patient’s growth and development, and the preferences of the surgeon and the patient’s family. Typically, the Nuss procedure is performed on children and adolescents, usually between the ages of 11 and 21 years, when their bones are still growing and more amenable to correction.

However, the age for Nuss procedure may be younger or older depending on the individual case. In some cases, the procedure may be done on infants or toddlers if the deformity is severe and causes significant breathing problems or affects the heart and lungs. In these cases, the surgeon may perform a modified Nuss procedure that is less invasive and entails placing smaller bars to avoid damaging the growing chest.

On the other hand, the Nuss procedure may not be suitable for older adults or those whose chest wall is too rigid or calcified to permit correction. In these cases, an open surgical technique called the Ravitch procedure may be more appropriate.

Overall, the age for Nuss procedure should be determined on a case-by-case basis by a qualified surgeon who can assess the patient’s condition, growth potential, and surgical risks and benefits. Patients and their families should discuss their concerns and expectations with their healthcare providers and explore all treatment options before making a decision.

Can adults get Nuss procedure?

Yes, adults can get the Nuss procedure. The Nuss procedure is a minimally invasive surgical procedure designed to correct pectus excavatum, a type of chest deformity characterized by a sunken chest. The procedure involves the placement of a steel bar below the sternum, which is then used to elevate the chest and improve its appearance.

Traditionally, the Nuss procedure has been performed on children and teenagers, as the condition is usually noticed during adolescence. However, studies have shown that the procedure can also be successful in adults, even those as old as 40 or 50 years old.

In fact, adult patients who undergo the Nuss procedure have reported high levels of satisfaction with the results. For many, the surgery has not only improved their physical appearance but also their quality of life. Many adults with pectus excavatum may have long struggled with physical activities due to their chest deformity, and the Nuss procedure can allow them to participate in sports and other activities more easily.

However, it is important to note that the Nuss procedure is not suitable for everyone. Like any surgery, there are risks and potential complications associated with the procedure, and patients must be thoroughly evaluated to determine whether it is the right treatment option for them. Consulting a qualified doctor or surgeon is crucial to understand the benefits and risks of the Nuss procedure and whether it is an appropriate solution for treating pectus excavatum in adults.

How risky is the Nuss procedure?

The Nuss procedure is a surgical technique used to treat pectus excavatum, a chest deformity in which the breastbone sinks into the chest. Like any surgical procedure, the Nuss procedure carries some degree of risk. However, the level of risk associated with the procedure varies depending on a variety of factors.

One of the primary risks of the Nuss procedure is the possibility of injury to adjacent structures, such as the lungs, heart, or blood vessels. This is because the procedure involves inserting a metal bar under the sternum to lift it into a normal position. If the bar is not placed correctly or if it moves after placement, it could compress or lacerate nearby structures.

Another possible complication is infection, which can occur at the surgical site and spread to surrounding tissues.

Overall, the Nuss procedure has been found to have a relatively low rate of complications when performed by experienced surgeons. Studies have reported complication rates ranging from less than 1% to 15%, with most falling in the lower end of that range. However, the risk of complications can increase in certain situations, such as when the surgery is performed on older patients or those with underlying health conditions.

To minimize the risks of the Nuss procedure, it is important to choose a surgeon who is experienced in the technique and has a good track record of successful outcomes. Patients should also be carefully screened to ensure that they are good candidates for the procedure and are in good overall health.

Additionally, patients should carefully follow all post-operative instructions to reduce the risk of infection or other complications.

While the Nuss procedure carries some degree of risk, the overall risks associated with the procedure are low when performed by experienced surgeons and in appropriate patients. As with any surgical procedure, patients should carefully weigh the potential risks and benefits before deciding to proceed with the Nuss procedure.

Does the Nuss procedure break ribs?

The Nuss procedure is a minimally invasive surgery used to correct congenital or acquired chest deformities like pectus excavatum or sunken chest. During the procedure, the surgeon places a convex metal bar under the sternum through small incisions on the chest wall. The bar is then rotated to elevate the sternum, allowing the chest wall to assume a normal shape.

One of the commonly asked questions about the Nuss procedure is whether the procedure breaks ribs. While the Nuss procedure does not aim to break the ribs, it is common for the surgeon to use a small osteotome or bone cutter to score or partially fracture the ribs to facilitate the placement of the metal bar.

This score helps to weaken the bone’s outer layer without completely breaking the ribs to make them flexible enough to allow the bar to lift the sternum into its proper position.

It is crucial to note that the surgeon performing the Nuss procedure has extensive training in the procedure and works with great care to prevent any unnecessary damage to the ribs. The scoring procedure does not break the ribs or harm the surrounding tissues and is generally well-tolerated by patients.

However, like any surgical procedure, the Nuss procedure carries some risks and potential complications, and there is a small chance that a rib may break during the surgery. In such cases, the surgeon will take appropriate measures to correct the damage and minimize any complications.

Overall, while the Nuss procedure does involve scoring the ribs to facilitate the placement of the metal bar, it does not break the ribs outright. The procedure has an excellent success rate in treating chest deformities and a low risk of complications when performed by a skilled and experienced surgeon.

It is always advisable to discuss any concerns or questions about the procedure with a qualified medical professional before undergoing the surgery.

How long do Nuss bars stay in?

Nuss bars are a medical device used in the treatment of pectus excavatum, a deformity of the chest where the breastbone is sunken inwards. The bars are surgically inserted into the chest and left in place for a period of time to gradually push out the chest into a normal position.

The length of time that Nuss bars stay in varies depending on individual cases and the severity of the deformity. Generally, the bars are left in place for around 2 to 3 years, although some patients may require a longer or shorter period of time.

During the time that the Nuss bars are in place, patients will require ongoing monitoring to ensure that the bars are functioning correctly and that there are no complications. This may include regular appointments with a doctor or specialist and imaging tests to track progress.

After the Nuss bars are removed, patients will likely require a period of rehabilitation to regain strength and mobility in their chest and upper body. This may involve physical therapy, breathing exercises, or other treatments as recommended by the healthcare provider.

Overall, the duration of time that Nuss bars stay in is an important consideration for patients and their families when undergoing treatment for pectus excavatum. With proper care and monitoring, Nuss bars can effectively correct chest deformities and improve the quality of life for individuals living with this condition.

Is the Nuss procedure the most painful surgery?

It is difficult to determine whether the Nuss procedure is the most painful surgery as it depends on individual experiences and factors such as the type of anesthesia used, the duration of the surgery, the patient’s pain threshold, and the surgeon’s technique.

The Nuss procedure is a minimally invasive surgery that corrects a congenital chest deformity called pectus excavatum. This surgery involves the insertion of a metal bar under the sternum, which pushes the chest out into a more normal shape. The surgery typically takes about 2-3 hours, and the patient is under general anesthesia.

After the surgery, patients may experience pain, discomfort, and difficulty breathing for several weeks, although this varies from person to person. Pain management techniques such as local anesthesia injections, epidural anesthesia, or prescription pain medication can be used to help manage the pain.

Recovery time can also vary, with some patients requiring several weeks to return to normal activities.

While the Nuss procedure can be uncomfortable, there are certainly other surgeries that can be more painful. For example, surgeries that involve major organs such as the heart or liver can be much more invasive and involve a longer recovery time. Additionally, surgeries that require extensive incisions or tissue removal can also be more painful.

It is difficult to determine whether the Nuss procedure is the most painful surgery as pain is subjective and can vary widely between individuals. However, with proper pain management techniques and careful monitoring, many patients are able to successfully recover from the procedure and enjoy an improved quality of life.

What are major complications after pectus excavatum repair surgery?

Pectus excavatum is a chest wall deformity in which the middle of the chest appears sunken or hollowed out. In severe cases, it can cause compression of the heart and lungs, leading to breathing problems and chest pain. The standard treatment for pectus excavatum is surgical repair, which involves reshaping the chest wall to create a more normal contour.

While the surgery is generally considered safe and effective, there are several potential complications that patients should be aware of.

One major complication of pectus excavatum repair surgery is bleeding. During the procedure, the surgeon may need to cut into the chest wall muscles and ribs to reshape the chest. This can cause significant bleeding, which may require transfusions or additional surgery to control. In some cases, excessive bleeding can lead to complications such as hematoma or infection.

Another potential complication of pectus excavatum repair surgery is infection. Anytime the skin is cut or broken, there is a risk of infection. Infection can occur at the surgical incision site or within the chest cavity. Signs of infection include fever, redness, swelling, and discharge from the incision site.

If left untreated, infection can lead to more serious complications such as pneumonia, abscess, or sepsis.

Nerve damage is another potential complication of pectus excavatum repair surgery. The chest wall contains many nerves and blood vessels that can be damaged during the procedure. Nerve damage can cause numbness, tingling, or weakness in the chest, arms, or shoulders.

Cardiac complications are also a concern after pectus excavatum repair surgery. In some cases, the surgery can cause compression of the heart or lungs, leading to breathing difficulties and chest pain. The surgeon will carefully monitor the patient’s heart and lung function during and after the procedure to minimize the risk of these complications.

Other potential complications of pectus excavatum repair surgery include scarring, persistent pain, and recurrence of the deformity. It is important for patients to discuss these potential risks with their surgeon and to follow all post-operative instructions to minimize the risk of complications. With proper care and monitoring, most patients will recover from surgery without significant complications.

Resources

  1. Pectus Deformity Repair – Commercial Medical Policy
  2. Pectus Excavatum and Poland’s Syndrome: Surgical Correction
  3. Corporate Medical Policy – Blue Cross NC
  4. Surgical Treatment of Chest Wall Deformities – Cigna
  5. Center for Pectus Excavatum and Carinatum – Children’s Mercy