Experiences and health-related quality of life following minimally invasive surgical repair for pectus excavatum – a mixed methods study
Year: 2026
Type: article
Study design: Observational Study
Abstract: BACKGROUND: Pectus excavatum is the most common congenital chest wall deformity. Minimally invasive repair for pectus excavatum (MIRPE) has demonstrated positive and psychsocial outcomes. The aim of this study was to gain a comprehensive understanding of health-related quality of life (HRQoL) in patients undergoing MIRPE. METHODS: This prospective cohort study applied a modified mixed methods convergent design and included 19 individuals scheduled for MIRPE with follow-up 18 months postoperatively. The Nuss Questionnaire modified for Adults 10-item version (NQ-mA-10) and RAND-36 were administered pre- and postoperatively. Postoperative individual interviews explored participants' lived experiences. Quantitative and qualitative data were integrated for a comprehensive analysis. RESULTS: Significant improvements were observed in NQ-mA-10 total and subscale scores, whereas no significant changes were found in RAND-36 domains. Improvements in disease-specific HRQoL were supported by interview data. Integration of findings generated four themes: self-perceived exercise capacity, stronger sense of self, increased freedom in life and persistent chest-related issues. DISCUSSION: Participants reported a stronger sense of self and greater freedom in life after MIRPE: However, persistent pain and fatigue highlight the need for further research and individualized postoperative care.
Institutions: Karolinska University Hospital, Örebro University
Language: English
Subfield: Surgery
Field: Medicine
Domain: Health Sciences
Open Access status: gold
Estimated APC paid: $1,790
Funder: Region Örebro län
Award: G3473265455
OpenAlex ID: W7130515801