Pectus Excavatum Bar Post-Operative Care

This surgery entails the placement of a surgical steel bar under the sternum. Because of this surgery the following restrictions apply:

• May return to school when physically able.
• No strenuous physical activity for 4 weeks (for school-age children this includes gym or P.E.), may return to normal activity with the following restrictions:
• No contact sports for 3 months
• No heavy lifting. Nothing greater than 5 lbs. for 2 months
• No bookbags or backpacks for 3 months.
• If possible, two sets of books should be provided (one for home, one for school).
• No slouching or slumping. Good posture is encouraged.
• No flexion or twisting at the waist for 4 weeks.
• No sleeping on side for 4 weeks.
• Please allow early dismissal from class to avoid collisions in the hall and stairways for 4 weeks.
• No MRI examinations of the chest and abdomen. CT scans are acceptable.
• If defibrillation needed, paddle placement needs to be anterior/posterior.
• Medic alert bracelet recommended. Inscription should state that surgical steel bar in place under sternum.

If there are any questions or concerns regarding this matter, please do not hesitate to contact the Pediatric Surgery Nurses at (734) 764-4151.

This information is provided by the University of Michigan Department of Surgery, Section of Pediatric Surgery and is not intended to replace the medical advice of your doctor or health care provider. Please consult your health care provider for advice about a specific medical condition. For additional health information, please contact your health care provider or our offices.