Ravitch Procedure
Pronunciation: RAH-vitch
Open surgical correction of chest wall deformities involving cartilage resection and sternal repositioning.
Full Definition
The Ravitch procedure is an open surgical technique for correcting pectus deformities, first described by Mark Ravitch in 1949. The procedure involves a transverse incision across the chest, resection of abnormal costal cartilages, division of the xiphoid process, and potential osteotomy of the sternum followed by repositioning and internal fixation. Originally developed for pectus excavatum, the technique has been modified for pectus carinatum repair. While effective, the procedure is associated with significant postoperative pain, potential for restrictive lung disease, and possible acquired Jeune's syndrome. The Ravitch procedure has largely been replaced by less invasive techniques like the Nuss procedure for pectus excavatum, though it remains useful for complex or revision cases.
Usage
Usage note: Named after Mark Ravitch; associated with more morbidity than minimally invasive alternatives.
In Context
- "The modified Ravitch procedure was performed for recurrent pectus excavatum after failed Nuss repair." — operative report
- "Post-Ravitch procedure pain management included epidural analgesia and scheduled NSAIDs." — postoperative note