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Pectus Carinatum

Critical Health Information for Patients with Pectus Carinatum

CPR may be performed on those who have undergone the Nuss procedure. More external force is necessary.

Defibrillation for cardiac arrhythmias may be performed. Anterior/posterior paddle placement is necessary to deliver adequate electrical charge.

No MRIs for the chest or thorax. For MRIs on other areas of the body, please make sure the radiologist is aware of the pectus bar. CT scans recommended.

Activation of metal alarm systems, such as those in airports may occur. Surgical steel bar is internal and not palpable.

While the pectus bar is in the chest, antibiotic prophylaxis is needed piror to dental procedures (cleanings, extractions, etc.).

What is Pectus Carinatum?

Pectus carinatum, also referred to as pigeon chest, is a chest wall deformity in which the sternum and ribs protrude.

Beyond possible physical issues of this condition, most often inefficient respiration and challenges with stamina, the deformity may also have a psychological impact on the patient.

Most commonly, pectus carinatum appears in males between the ages of 11 and 14 as they reach puberty, and is commonly the result of overgrowth of the costal cartilage.

There are many treatment options for pectus carinatum, including surgery and non-surgical bracing. CHKD’s Nuss Center is renowned for treating deformities of the chest wall and can help you select the best treatment option for your child based on their specific needs.

The Dynamic Compression Brace

In 2009, CHKD began to offer treatment with the dynamic compression brace. This brace, developed in Argentina, is more comfortable for children to wear and avoids the skin breakdown that occurs with traditional braces. With this brace, our young patients are more likely to successfully complete treatment.

The dynamic compression brace uses a precise amount of pressure needed to reshape the chest without causing skin breakdown or so much discomfort that the child will not wear it. A special device measures the pounds per square inch (psi) that the brace exerts, which is adjusted monthly as the chest slowly assumes a normal shape.

The dynamic compression brace is not a good alternative for young people who require more than 7.5 psi compression to achieve correction.

Minimally Invasive Pectus Carinatum Surgery at CHKD

CHKD's surgeons perform minimally invasive pectus carinatum surgery when bracing cannot correct the condition.

Pectus carinatum surgery is based on the Nuss Procedure and introduces a curved bar through small incisions made on either side of the chest. The bar is placed under the muscles of the chest and over the sternum, immediately depressing the chest protrusion.

The bars are anchored to the ribs with special stabilizers and remain in place for several years, allowing the chest cartilage to harden in the correct position.

Frequently Asked Questions About Pectus Carinatum

What is the treatment for pectus carinatum?

Our first line of treatment for Pectus Carinatum is bracing therapy. In some cases, surgery may be offered. Learn more about non-surgical bracing therapies at CHKD.

Can the Nuss procedure be used for pectus carinatum?

No, this requires a different procedure.

Can surgery fix pectus carinatum?

Yes, surgery can fix Pectus Carinatum, but it is not the first line of treatment.

DisclaimerThis information is not intended to substitute or replace the professional medical advice you receive from your child's physician. The content provided on this page is for informational purposes only, and was not designed to diagnose or treat a health problem or disease. Please consult your child's physician with any questions or concerns you may have regarding a medical condition.