Microdeformational wound therapy: A novel option to salvage complex wounds associated with the Nuss procedure

Abstract

BackgroundComplex wounds associated with the Nuss procedure are a resource intensive complication that may lead to significant morbidity with potential removal of the implanted device and abandonment of the repair. We report our management technique of this complication utilizing microdeformational wound therapy (MDWT) that is safe, is efficacious and allows for salvage of the repair. Operative techniqueWe defined a complex wound as a wound that became suppurative and drained in the postoperative period and failed to resolve with a trial of conventional wound management and antibiotics. Upon recognition of a complex wound, we recommend an initial operative wound debridement. This allows wound cultures, wound assessment and precise initiation of MDWT. It is not uncommon to have exposed hardware in the wound early in the course of therapy. Metal allergy must be excluded. The patient is transitioned to oral antibiotics following resolution of the acute process. MDWT is performed until the wounds are completely epithelialized with no clinical signs of drainage or infection. The average length of MDWT in our patients was 39 days. Following complete wound healing the patients are maintained on antibiotics until implant removal. ConclusionsThe use of microdeformational wound therapy in complex wounds associated with the Nuss procedure is a safe and effective modality. The technique may reduce the likelihood of implant removal with potential recurrent pectus excavatum. Type of studyOperative technique. Level of evidenceLevel IV, case series with no comparison group