LONG-TERM RESULTS AFTER FUNNEL CHEST OPERATION

36 out of 62 patients, who underwent surgical correction for funnel chest deformity between 1978 and 1988 with an average follow-up of 7.6 years have been reviewed. The mean age, Hegemann operation was performed, was 14.1 years. 76% of patients reported preoperatively cardiorespiratory disorders, 71% showed electrocardiographic and pulmonal alterations. Postoperatively significant reduction of cardiorespiratory disorders but no significant reduction of electrocardiographic changes were seen. The pre-and postoperative radiological and functional measurements of the chest deformity which provides an objective evaluation of the surgical result are described. Surgical treatment is indicated in most of cases for cosmetic or psychic reasons. The long-term results were good or fair in 90% or more of our cases. We suggested that disfiguring scars with keloid formation causes less mental stress than persistent congenital malformation of the chest.