Safety procedure of Nuss method based on the degree of concavity of the sternum from long-term experience

We have been performing the Nuss method since the year 2000. For the past several years, we have made several modifications to the original method to increase safety. Our modified Nuss method was chosen from three stages of surgical methods based on the degree of concavity of the sternum and the osseous plasticity of the patient. The first stage is when the individual is of the appropriate age for operation. The second stage is when the individual is of the appropriate age and has severe concavity of the sternum. The final stage is when the individual has passed the appropriate age of operation. To prevent blind operation, we use endoscopy and endoscope detachment forceps during all of the above stages. The main purpose is to avoid life-threatening complications such as massive bleeding when passing the introducer through the retrosternal space. This operation method achieves the Nuss method with not only minimally invasive operation but also with higher safety.