Magnetic Mini-Mover Procedure for Pectus Excavatum

Abstract

The most common procedures for the repair of pectus excavatum, the Nuss and the Ravitch, correct the chest wall in a single procedure, forcing the sternum forward with extensive manipulation under general anesthesia. These procedures cause significant pain and can require lengthy hospitalization with extended recovery. The magnetic mini-mover procedure (3MP) for pectus excavatum was developed as an alternative to these procedures. Inspired by orthodontic braces and bracing for pectus carinatum, the procedure applies a small amount of force over a long period of time to achieve chest wall correction. The 3MP uses a magnetic field to apply controlled outward force on the sternum, gradually re-forming the chest wall cartilage over time without major surgery or hospitalization. Moreover, once a good correction has been achieved, the position of the sternum can be adjusted or held in place while cartilage remodeling completes with intermittent bracing, much like a nightly retainer holds the teeth in place after braces have been removed.