Abstract: A pectus bar extraction tool for removing a pectus bar having posterior and anterior sides includes a handle, an engagement member fixed to and extending from the handle for extending from the anterior to the posterior sides of the pectus bar to engage the posterior side of the pectus bar, and a lever arm fixed to and extending from the handle opposite to the engagement member for engaging the pectus bar on the anterior side of the pectus bar. A system and method for removing a pectus bar are also disclosed.

Abstract: A system for correcting pectus excavatum includes a pectus bar having an elongated main body portion with posterior and anterior sides and opposing ends, and a lateral cross section. A pectus bar extraction tool has a handle, the handle having a head at an end of the handle. The head has an elongated slot for receiving the pectus bar. The slot is dimensioned to receive the lateral cross section of pectus bar such that the pectus bar can be positioned in the slot and the handle manipulated to impart a force on the pectus bar. A pectus bar extraction tool and a method for removing a pectus bar are also disclosed.

Abstract: A system for measuring normal load and deflection of a material that includes a portable load deflection device and a method of using the same is disclosed. The system includes a support arm having a first end and a second end opposite said first end. The first end can be attached to a base surface. The support arm can provides at least three degrees of freedom of movement and includes at least one sensor for determining a position of the second end. A uniaxial load cell can be operably attached to the second end. The system can also include a processing system operable to receive position data and corresponding force data when the support arm is used to apply a non-normal compression force to the test surface. The data can be used to calculate normal force versus deflection data for the test surface.

Abstract: Computer systems and methods are provided for training surgeons to perform the Nuss procedure, a surgery for correcting pectus excavatum (PE), and for planning such procedures. PE is a congenital chest wall deformity, and the Nuss procedure is a minimally invasive surgery that involves implantation of a corrective bar. A surgical trainer and planner may be based on one or more of the biomechanical properties of the PE ribcage, deformable models, and visualization techniques.

Abstract: A pectus bar extraction tool for removing a pectus bar having posterior and anterior sides includes a handle, an engagement member fixed to and extending from the handle for extending from the anterior to the posterior sides of the pectus bar to engage the posterior side of the pectus bar, and a lever arm fixed to and extending from the handle opposite to the engagement member for engaging the pectus bar on the anterior side of the pectus bar. A system and method for removing a pectus bar are also disclosed.

Abstract: A system for measuring normal load and deflection of a material that includes a portable load deflection device and a method of using the same is disclosed. The system includes a support arm having a first end and a second end opposite said first end. The first end can be attached to a base surface. The support arm can provides at least three degrees of freedom of movement and includes at least one sensor for determining a position of the second end. A uniaxial load cell can be operably attached to the second end. The system can also include a processing system operable to receive position data and corresponding force data when the support arm is used to apply a non-normal compression force to the test surface. The data can be used to calculate normal force versus deflection data for the test surface.