The Ravitch procedure is a surgery to correct severe pectus carinatum and pectus excavatum. It's typically used for patients 13 to 22 years old.
Pectus carinatum is a condition in which the sternum (breastbone) juts out. Pectus excavatum is when the breastbone is caved in. These conditions happen because several ribs and the breastbone grow abnormally.
Pectus carinatum and pectus excavatum can be mild or severe. Severe cases may cause problems with the heart and lungs.
The Ravitch procedure has several steps. The surgeon:
In the months after surgery, the cartilage grows and keeps the sternum in its new position.
After surgery, kids need pain medicine and rest. They should stay home from school until they no longer need to take prescription pain medicine. Doing breathing and other exercises as recommended by the surgeon help with recovery.
For a few months, kids also should:
It may take 6 months or more for kids to safely return to all the activities they did before the surgery.
There are risks with any surgery, including bleeding, infection, and problems with anesthesia.
Specific risks for the Ravitch procedure include:
Pectus carinatum or pectus excavatum can make kids feel self-conscious about the way they look. The Ravitch procedure can improve the way the chest looks and help a child's self-esteem. The recovery time can be difficult, but most kids are happy with the results.
Reviewed by: Adela T. Casas-Melley, MD
Date Reviewed: May 10, 2023