Simultaneous pectus and open heart surgery.

Various surgical approaches to pectus excavatum repair concomitant with surgery have been recommended. In this article the authors describe their approach to the problem that they applied in 1989 and onward, successfully, in six consecutive patients. The favorable early and long-term results of these cases illustrate that the simultaneous correction of pectus excavatum and the underlying diseases of the ascending aorta, aortic arch, and the heart can be performed successfully even in emergency situations. The technique recommended provides good cosmetic results and a stable chest wall. It is well applicable in patients of adult age.