Research
Research at Mayo Clinic is focused on understanding how pectus excavatum affects heart and lung function and whether surgical correction produces measurable improvements in patients' cardiopulmonary health. Mayo researchers conduct studies looking at long-term outcomes after Nuss repair, including investigations of exercise capacity, cardiac performance, and symptom improvement following both surgery and subsequent bar removal. The research aims to provide objective evidence of the physiologic benefits of repair beyond cosmetic correction.
In addition to studying long-term outcomes, Mayo Clinic investigators are working to improve the safety and effectiveness of pectus excavatum treatment. Research projects examine cardiac changes before and after repair, genetic factors that may contribute to pectus deformities, and strategies for optimizing postoperative pain management. They also focus on improving surgical outcomes by developing techniques to reduce pectus bar displacement, one of the most significant complications associated with the Nuss procedure. Mayo researchers also are exploring related conditions, including autonomic dysfunction and exercise intolerance in patients with pectus excavatum. Their research helps expand understanding of how the condition affects overall health and quality of life.
Publications
See a list of publications about the Nuss procedure by Mayo Clinic doctors on PubMed, a service of the National Library of Medicine.