Management of Postoperative Infections Following the Minimally Access Repair for Pectus Excavatum

Abstract

Infectious complications associated with the minimal access technique for repair of pectus excavatum can be a challenge in diagnosis and management. Prevention strategies should begin in the perioperative period with the use of prophylactic antibiotics and strict sterile technique. In the postoperative period, skin and soft tissue infections associated with the substernal bar can have variable presentations, and management will be determined by the extent of the infection. Most of these infections can be managed conservatively with a combination of intravenous and oral antibiotics. More advanced or complex cases may require treatment by incision and drainage, or removal of one of the lateral stabilizers. Bar removal should be reserved for recurrent or complicated infections that do not respond to conservative management. Additionally, providers must be aware of the potential for metal allergies to the stainless steel pectus bar that may have a similar presentation of erythema and rash.