The New Erlangen technique of funnel chest correction -: Minimalization of a well working procedure

Introduction: In many operative fields there is a trend to be minimally invasive, so in chestwall surgery too. Because of this influence we developed a technique for routine measurements of the forces during surgery. So it was possible to make the Erlangen technique substantially less invasive. Methods: Mobilisation of the sternum always begins with freeing of the xiphisternum. Then we use a spring balance with a measurement range of 20-230N. This is attached to the sternum with a single-pronged hook, and then the sternum is raised to the desired position. Discussion: Since the introduction of intraoperative measurements it has been possible to make the Erlangen technique substantially less invasive, i.e. division of the ribs at the outer rim of the funnel, previously always carried out, is no longer done. Of course we could also minimise the length of the incision.