Welcome to CWIG2025 website!
Dear CWIG Member,
The 25th Annual Congress of the Chest Wall International Group will take place on September 17-19, 2025, at the Hokto Culture Center in Nagano, Japan.
Through the activities of the CWIG, I believe that a certain consensus has been established not only in the treatment of pectus excavatum, but also in understanding its pathology. In Japan, due to our unique educational system and national characteristics, it is common for patients to seek treatment around the age of 10, which is just before adolescence. Meanwhile, in patients who have passed the optimal age for treatment, there is an increasing trend to pursue intervention with the goal of improving functionality. I believe that changes in the treatment of pectus excavatum, including the Nuss procedure, are therefore in demand. At the next conference, we will explore the fundamental techniques, safety, evaluation, pain control, and basic pathology that form the core of Asian approaches, as well as how to address cases beyond the optimal age for treatment given recent trends. These topics will include managing recurrence due to growth and approaches for chest walls with reduced plasticity. Also in recent years, the concept of 'chest wall aesthetics,' which incorporates cosmetic aspects into the formation of chest wall morphology, has been gaining traction in Japan. We hope that next year’s conference will provide an opportunity for active discussions with experts and colleagues worldwide on these new perspectives and challenges.
The host city of the conference, Nagano, is a charming location that elegantly combines Japanese culture and nature. The symbol of Nagano, Zenkoji Temple, has a history of over 1,400 years and is beloved by many visitors. Just a short drive away, you will also be able to enjoy the beautiful seasonal scenery of the Togakushi Highlands and the breathtaking views of the Northern Alps, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Nagano is also known for its rich natural environment and pristine water, both of which contribute to its reputation as a producer of high-quality saké and wine; in recent years, Nagano’s Chardonnay and Merlot varieties have gained particular acclaim, and wine tourism has become increasingly popular. While at the conference, why not take the opportunity to enjoy Nagano's stunning landscapes while savoring the local delicacies? They will be the perfect pairing with other Japanese attractions like Tokyo, Kyoto, and Nara, which are only a shinkansen ride away.
We look forward to seeing you next year in Nagano!
Sincerely,
Masahiko Noguchi M.D., Ph.D.
2025 CWIG Conference Chairperson
2025 CWIG Program Chairperson
An innovative surgical technique for pectus excavatum was published by Prof. Nuss in 1998. This procedure quickly spread worldwide due to its minimally invasive nature compared to conventional techniques.
My personal experience with the Nuss procedure stated in 1998, but it was not until 1999 that many Japanese hospitals began to take up the challenge. There were various technical problems with the procedure, and a safe and reliable technique was essential. Therefore, pediatric surgeons, plastic surgeons, and thoracic surgeons in Japan who were interested in the Nuss procedure came together and established a study group on the surgical technique in 2000, inviting Dr. Nuss as a lecturer. Since then, the study group has met every year to share their findings and make improvements. Currently, more than 100 facilities are registered in this study group, and as many as 30 abstracts are presented at the annual meetings.
We believe that the joint holding of this conference by the Japanese study group of the Nuss procedure and CWIG is of great significance for the development of chest wall surgery as well as the treatment of pectus excavatum in Japan. Top researchers from around the world are going to get together and present innovative research. By interacting with researchers from around the world, we hope to gain international perspectives and advance the treatment of pectus excavatum and related chest wall disorders in Japan.
I also hope that many researchers from all over the world will come to Japan and experience the hospitality, beautiful nature, and unique culture of Japan.
Sadashige Uemura
2025 CWIG Honorary Conference Chairperson