Xiphodynia as an Unusual Cause of Chest Pain: A Case Series

Abstract

Introduction Treatment options for xiphodynia are injections with local corticosteroid injections or surgical resection of the xiphoid process. Currently, there is no consensus as to which treatment is the most optimal. Objectives The aim of this case series was to compare the safety and efficacy of conservative and surgical treatment for patients with xiphodynia. Patients and Methods A retrospective case series was performed. All patients presenting with xiphodynia between 2016 and 2021 were eligible. Demographic data and treatment regimes, including preoperative work-up and surgical technique, were extracted from the electronic patient files. In addition, all patients received a follow-up phone call with a questionnaire. Patient satisfaction was measured using the Numeric Rating Scale. Results A total of five patients, suffering from xiphodynia for up to 10 years, completed the follow-up questionnaire (median patient age, 57 years; range 51–68 years). Three of these patients initially received conservative treatment with local injections with corticosteroids for at least 6 months. One patient was satisfied with the results and did not opt for surgical treatment. Eventually, four patients were treated surgically by removing the xiphoid process. No postoperative complications were recorded and 100% of the patients who underwent a xiphoidectomy were free of symptoms and satisfied with the results. Conclusion Symptoms related to xiphodynia can be relieved using conservative or surgical treatment, where the latter seems to be a safe and effective solution.

Keywords

• xiphodynia
• xiphoidectomy
• sternum
• thoracic surgery