Bar removal, wherever the repair began
If your child had a Nuss procedure with another surgeon and the bar now needs to come out, we can help. Many families come to us after an insurance change, a move, or because their original surgeon is no longer available. You can start with an online consultation, and we will guide you through every step.
- Typical timing
- About 2 to 3 years after placement
- Hospital stay
- Usually outpatient
- First visit
- Online or in Calabasas
- Insurance
- Most PPO insurance accepted
Why families come to us for bar removal
Changing surgeons for bar removal is common, and it does not matter where the original repair was done. These are the most common reasons families reach out.
Your insurance changed
A new plan can put the surgeon who placed the bar out of network. This is the most common reason families come to us for removal.
You moved
The surgeon who did the original repair may now be hours away, or in another state.
Your surgeon is no longer available
A retirement or a change in practice can leave your family without a plan for taking the bar out.
It is time for the bar to come out
The bar holds the chest in its new shape while the chest wall remodels, usually for about two to three years. Once that has happened, it has done its job and comes out. Not sure when your child's bar is due? The operative report and recent imaging help answer that.
When to call, and when to go straight in
Most bar removals are planned well ahead and are not urgent. Call our office if your child has new or worsening chest pain, swelling or redness over the bar, or if you think the bar has moved. If your child has severe chest pain, trouble breathing, or fainting, go to the emergency room or call 911.
Dr. Frykman's approach
Minimally invasive wherever it is the safest choice, and a plan you can understand and take home.
- 01
Start with an online consultation
We go over your child's history, the original operative report and any imaging with you online, so the first step does not need a drive.
- 02
A careful look at the original repair
Before removal I review how many bars were placed, how they were secured, and how your child's chest has responded.
- 03
A short procedure
Bar removal is a short procedure under general anesthesia, usually through the same small incisions on the sides of the chest.
- 04
Comfort and clear updates
Our anesthesia team plans pain control with you, and I update you personally as soon as the procedure is done.
What to bring to your consultation
Records from the original surgery make the handoff to a new surgeon smooth and help us plan safely. If you are missing something, tell us when we call and we will let you know what we need.
Operative report
The report from the original Nuss procedure, which notes the number and type of bars used.
Imaging
Any chest X-rays or CT scans from before or after the repair, with their reports.
Recent clinic notes
Notes from follow up visits with the original surgeon, if you have them.
Insurance details
Most PPO insurance accepted. Our team verifies coverage before anything is scheduled.
Before, during and after
Before
Online consult and records review
We meet online, review the records from the original repair, and agree on the timing for removal.
Day of surgery
A short procedure, home the same day
Under general anesthesia the bar is removed, usually through the original incisions. Most children go home later that day.
Recovery
A quick return to routine
Soreness is usually mild and short lived. We check in afterward and let you know when your child can return to sports.
Getting back to being a kid
Most children go home the same day as the procedure.
Some soreness around the incisions is expected for a few days.
You will get clear guidance on bathing, school and activity before you leave.
Dr. Frykman decides when your child can return to sports.
A follow up visit checks that the incisions are healing well.
What parents ask us
Still wondering about something? Bring every question to the consultation. Nothing is too small.
Yes. Dr. Frykman removes Nuss bars placed by other surgeons. Most families who come to us for this have had an insurance change. The operative report from the original surgery helps us plan safely.
Sometimes. We review any recent imaging you have at the consultation and let you know if anything new is needed before removal.
Yes. Your first consultation can be online, so you can talk with Dr. Frykman and share records before making the trip to Calabasas.
Most PPO insurance accepted. Our team will verify your coverage and explain any costs before anything is scheduled.
Talk it through
Discuss this with Dr. Frykman
Request an appointment and a member of the team will call you back. Urgent concerns are triaged the same day wherever possible.
Dr. Philip K. Frykman
Board-certified pediatric surgeon
Wherever the bar was placed, your child is my patient now, and we will plan the removal together.
