Pectus excavatum is a deformity in the chest wall that gives the chest a sunken look. It happens because of a problem with the way the cartilage in the breastbone (sternum) and ribs develop.
The condition is usually diagnosed by the time a child is age 1 and is more common in boys than in girls. Pectus excavatum can range from mild to severe.
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What are the signs and symptoms of pectus excavatum?
In most cases, the chest will have a slight to moderate sunken appearance. This may become more noticeable as the child grows. In many cases, your child may not have any other symptoms, especially if the condition is mild. Symptoms in children with a more severe condition may include:
- Shortness of breath, especially with exercise
- Chest pain
What causes pectus excavatum?
Experts do not know what causes pectus excavatum. In some cases, it may run in families.
How is pectus excavatum treated?
Doctors at Connecticut Children’s can determine the right plan if your child requires treatment for pectus excavatum. Some children with very mild cases may not need treatment. For children who do need treatment, surgery to correct the condition is the only option.
There are a few surgical options to treat pectus excavatum. At Connecticut Children’s, our surgeons most often use the Nuss procedure, a minimally invasive approach. During the procedure, the surgeon uses small incisions to insert a metal bar under the breastbone. This bar lifts and corrects the shape of the breastbone over time. Usually, the bar stays in the chest for about two years.