Pectus Excavatum
Also know as sunken chest, pectus excavatum is a depression of the chest wall. The depression may be in the center of the chest or more pronounced on one side or the other (asymmetrical). A child can be born with pectus or develop it during the pubertal growth spurt. The deformity may become more severe with growth spurts.
The pectus depression can squeeze or crowd the heart and lungs. Individuals may have difficulty catching their breath, tire easily, or complain of chest pain during exercise. At the Nuss Center at CHKD, we can determine the grade or severity of the pectus by calculating the Haller index from your child’s cardiac/thoracic MRI or CT scan of the chest.
Early evaluation by a CHKD pediatric surgeon is beneficial. Bones are softer in young children and more easily reshaped. As the pectus worsens and the child approaches the teenage years, the bones become harder. This can make it more difficult to raise the sternum, allowing more room for the heart and lungs.
However, surgery can be successfully performed on patients through adulthood.
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.).
Disclaimer: This 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.