[Late results of the surgical correction of funnel chest. Evaluation with subjective and objective criteria including moiré topography].

The long term results of 32 patients with funnel chest deformity that were operatively treated by means of Rehbein's metal implants have been reviewed. The investigated criteria were electrocardiography, pulmonary function, radiographical measurements, and photogrammetry of the frontal thoracic plane (Moiré-Topography). There was no significant change of the electrocardiography and pulmonary function due to the operative treatment. Roentgenometric and surface measurement data showed in 40% of the cases investigated minor up to complete relapses. According to the results the indications for operative treatment and the importance of the patient's age at this time are discussed.