Aftercare after surgery | Funnel chest OP

Aftercare after surgery

Aftercare after a funnel chest correction takes several weeks. Initially, adequate pain therapy – especially with the Nut Method – is an important pillar. Furthermore, certain movements should be avoided in the first six weeks, such as rotational movements of the rib cage.

Sports should also be avoided during this time and no backpacks or heavy loads should be carried. After six weeks, gentle sports such as swimming or cycling can be started. Physiotherapy is also only started after the first six weeks. After 12 weeks, a complete load on the upper body is possible again. Physiotherapy should be continued.

When can I do sports again?

During the first three months, there are various sports restrictions that must be observed. In the first six weeks no sports should be done at all. Heavy loads must not be lifted or carried during this time. From the sixth week onwards, sport (swimming, jogging, cycling) may be gradually resumed and post-operative controlled physiotherapy may be started. From the 12th week, sport is again possible without restriction.

What kind of pain do you have after the surgery?

Especially after the Nuss method, severe pain is described in patients. Here it often comes to a longer lasting pain therapy. The pain is mainly in the operating area, can occur during movements in the chest and back and can also be felt when breathing.

It is not unusual for pain and discomfort to occur after an operation. However, these should be limited with the right therapy and become bearable. If, in addition to the pain, there is redness on the skin in the area of the operation wounds or fever, a doctor should definitely be consulted to rule out infection.

At what age can a funnel chest be operated on?

The surgical methods are possible at any age. However, in most cases children are only operated on if they develop symptoms such as shortness of breath. Otherwise, non-surgical therapies are preferred in childhood.

In the case of the minimally invasive and most frequently performed method according to Nuss, the ideal time for surgery is around the age of 16, when longitudinal growth is complete, but it can also be performed later in adulthood. Which surgical method or therapy is most suitable should be discussed with the treating physician. As an alternative to surgery or as a preparatory measure, the regular use of a suction cup is suitable.