View source for Pectus excavatum

{{Short description|Congenital deformity of the chest}}
{{Infobox medical condition
| name            = Pectus excavatum
| synonyms        = Funnel chest, dented chest, sunken chest, concave chest, chest hole
| image           = Pectus1.jpg
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| caption         = An example of a severe case of pectus excavatum
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| field           = [[Orthopedics]]
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'''Pectus excavatum''' is a structural deformity of the anterior [[thoracic wall]] in which the [[sternum]] and [[rib cage]] are shaped abnormally. This produces a caved-in or sunken appearance of the [[chest]]. It can either be present at birth or develop after puberty.

Pectus excavatum can impair [[cardiac]] and [[respiratory]] function and cause pain in the chest and back.

People with the condition may experience severe negative [[psychosocial]] effects and avoid activities that expose the chest.<ref>{{MedlinePlusEncyclopedia|003320|Pectus excavatum}}</ref>

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==Etymology==
Pectus excavatum is from [[Latin]] meaning ''hollowed chest''.<ref name=Dorlands>{{Cite book|title =Dorland's Medical Dictionary|chapter =Pectus Excavatum|edition =28|chapter-url =http://www.mercksource.com/pp/us/cns/cns_hl_dorlands_split.jsp?pg=/ppdocs/us/common/dorlands/dorland/nine/000955637.htm|isbn =978-0-7216-0146-5|author =chief lexicographer: Douglas M. Anderson|year =2003|publisher =Saunders|location =Philadelphia, Penns.|access-date =2017-05-24|archive-url =https://web.archive.org/web/20090121131119/http://www.mercksource.com/pp/us/cns/cns_hl_dorlands_split.jsp?pg=%2Fppdocs%2Fus%2Fcommon%2Fdorlands%2Fdorland%2Fnine%2F000955637.htm|archive-date =2009-01-21|url-status =dead}}</ref>  It is sometimes referred to as sunken chest syndrome, cobbler's chest or funnel chest.<ref name="FPnotebook">{{cite web |url=http://www.fpnotebook.com/Lung/Exam/PctsExcvtm.htm |title=Pectus Excavatum }}</ref><ref>{{cite book |author1=Spence, Roy A. J. |author2=Patrick J. Morrison |title=Genetics for Surgeons |publisher=Remedica Publishing |year=2005 |isbn=978-1-901346-69-5 |url=https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK7548/ }}</ref>

==Signs and symptoms==
The hallmark of the condition is a sunken appearance of the sternum. The most common form is a cup-shaped concavity, involving the lower end of the sternum; a broader concavity involving the upper costal cartilages is possible.<ref name="pmid22294949">{{cite journal |vauthors=Blanco FC, Elliott ST, Sandler AD |title=Management of congenital chest wall deformities |journal=Seminars in Plastic Surgery |volume=25 |issue=1 |pages=107–16 |year=2011 |pmid=22294949 |pmc=3140238 |doi=10.1055/s-0031-1275177 |type=Review}}</ref> The lower-most ribs may protrude ("flared ribs").<ref>See for example {{cite journal |vauthors=Bosgraaf RP, Aronson DC |title=Treatment of flaring of the costal arch after the minimally invasive pectus excavatum repair (Nuss procedure) in children |journal=Journal of Pediatric Surgery |volume=45 |issue=9 |pages=1904–6 |year=2010 |pmid=20850643 |doi=10.1016/j.jpedsurg.2010.05.037 }}</ref> Pectus excavatum defects may be symmetric or asymmetric.

People may also experience chest and back pain, which is usually of musculoskeletal origin.<ref>{{EMedicine|article|1004953|Pectus Excavatum|clinical}}</ref>

In mild cases, cardiorespiratory function is normal, although the heart can be displaced and/or rotated.<ref name="pmid19632563">{{cite journal |vauthors=Fokin AA, Steuerwald NM, Ahrens WA, Allen KE |title=Anatomical, histologic, and genetic characteristics of congenital chest wall deformities |journal=Seminars in Thoracic and Cardiovascular Surgery |volume=21 |issue=1 |pages=44–57 |year=2009 |pmid=19632563 |doi=10.1053/j.semtcvs.2009.03.001 |type=Review}}</ref>  In severe cases, the right atrium may be compressed, [[mitral valve prolapse]] may be present, and physical capability may be limited due to base lung capacity being decreased.<ref name="test">{{cite web |url=http://www.medscape.com/viewarticle/571222_3 |website=Medscape|title=Cardiopulmonary Manifestations of Pectus Excavatum}}{{subscription required}}</ref><ref>{{cite journal |last1=Jaroszewski |first1=Dawn E. |last2=Warsame |first2=Tahlil A. |last3=Chandrasekaran |first3=Krishnaswamy |last4=Chaliki |first4=Hari |title=Right Ventricular Compression Observed in Echocardiography from Pectus Excavatum Deformity |journal=Journal of Cardiovascular Ultrasound |date=2011 |volume=19 |issue=4 |pages=192–195 |doi=10.4250/jcu.2011.19.4.192 |pmid=22259662 |pmc=3259543 }}</ref>

Psychological symptoms manifest with feelings of embarrassment, [[social anxiety]], shame, limited capacity for activities and communication, negativity, intolerance, frustration, and even [[Major depressive disorder|depression]].<ref name="Haje & de Podestá Haje 2009"/>

==Causes==
Researchers are unsure of the cause of pectus excavatum. Some researchers take the stance that it is a [[Birth defect|congenital disorder]] (birth defect), but not genetic. Others assume that there is some genetic component. A small sample size test found that in at least some cases, 37% of individuals have an affected first degree family member.<ref name="pmid8641129">{{cite journal |author=Shamberger RC |title=Congenital chest wall deformities |journal=Current Problems in Surgery |volume=33 |issue=6 |pages=469–542 |year=1996 |pmid=8641129 |doi=10.1016/S0011-3840(96)80005-0 |type=Review}}</ref> {{As of|2012}}, a number of [[genetic marker]]s for pectus excavatum had also been discovered.<ref name="pmid22323132">{{cite journal |vauthors=Dean C, Etienne D, Hindson D, Matusz P, Tubbs RS, Loukas M |title=Pectus excavatum (funnel chest): a historical and current prospective |journal=Surgical and Radiologic Anatomy |volume=34 |issue=7 |pages=573–9 |year=2012 |pmid=22323132 |doi=10.1007/s00276-012-0938-7 |s2cid=9681587 }}</ref>

It was believed for decades that pectus excavatum is caused by an overgrowth of [[costal cartilage]]; however, people with pectus excavatum actually tend to have shorter, not longer, costal cartilage relative to rib length.<ref>{{cite journal |last1=Eisinger |first1=Robert S. |last2=Harris |first2=Travis |last3=Rajderkar |first3=Dhanashree A. |last4=Islam |first4=Saleem |title=Against the Overgrowth Hypothesis: Shorter Costal Cartilage Lengths in Pectus Excavatum |journal=Journal of Surgical Research |date=March 2019 |volume=235 |pages=93–97 |doi=10.1016/j.jss.2018.09.080 |pmid=30691856 |s2cid=59342702 }}</ref>

Pectus excavatum can be present in other conditions too, including [[Noonan syndrome]], [[Marfan syndrome]]<ref name="emedicine2">{{EMedicine|article|946315|Genetics of Marfan Syndrome}}</ref> and [[Loeys–Dietz syndrome]] as well as other connective tissue disorders such as [[Ehlers–Danlos syndrome]].<ref>{{cite journal |last1=Creswick |first1=Heather A. |last2=Stacey |first2=Michael W. |last3=Kelly |first3=Robert E. |last4=Gustin |first4=Tina |last5=Nuss |first5=Donald |last6=Harvey |first6=Helen |last7=Goretsky |first7=Michael J. |last8=Vasser |first8=Ellen |last9=Welch |first9=J. Camille |last10=Mitchell |first10=Karen |last11=Proud |first11=Virginia K. |title=Family study of the inheritance of pectus excavatum |journal=Journal of Pediatric Surgery |date=October 2006 |volume=41 |issue=10 |pages=1699–1703 |doi=10.1016/j.jpedsurg.2006.05.071 |pmid=17011272 }}</ref> Many children with [[spinal muscular atrophy]] develop pectus excavatum due to their [[diaphragmatic breathing]].

==Pathophysiology==
Physiologically, increased pressure ''in utero'', [[rickets]] and increased traction on the [[Human sternum|sternum]] due to abnormalities of the [[Thoracic diaphragm|diaphragm]] have been postulated as specific mechanisms.<ref name=pmid8641129/> Because the [[heart]] is located behind the sternum, and because individuals with pectus excavatum have been shown to have visible deformities of the heart seen both on radiological imaging and after autopsies, it has been hypothesized that there is impairment of the function of the cardiovascular system in individuals with pectus excavatum.

While some studies have demonstrated decreased cardiovascular function, no consensus has been reached based on newer physiological tests such as [[echocardiography]] of the presence or degree of impairment in cardiovascular function. However, a 2016 meta-analysis found significant evidence that surgical correction of pectus excavatum improves patient cardiac performance.<ref name="pmid27747182">{{cite journal |vauthors=Maagaard M, Heiberg J |title=Improved cardiac function and exercise capacity following correction of pectus excavatum: a review of current literature |journal=Annals of Cardiothoracic Surgery |volume=5 |issue=5 |pages=485–492 |year=2016 |pmid=27747182 |pmc=5056930 |doi=10.21037/acs.2016.09.03 |type=Review |doi-access=free }}</ref>

==Diagnosis==
[[File:Pectusexcavatum.png|thumb|Cross sectional scan of a chest with pectus excavatum]]

Pectus excavatum is initially suspected from visual examination of the anterior chest. [[Auscultation]] of the chest can reveal displaced heartbeat and valve prolapse. There can be a [[heart murmur]] occurring during [[Systole (medicine)|systole]] caused by proximity between the sternum and the [[pulmonary artery]].<ref name="pmid4850886">{{cite journal |vauthors=Guller B, Hable K |title=Cardiac findings in pectus excavatum in children: review and differential diagnosis |journal=[[Chest (journal)|Chest]] |volume=66 |issue=2 |pages=165–71 |year=1974 |pmid=4850886 |doi=10.1378/chest.66.2.165 }}</ref> Lung sounds are usually clear yet diminished due to decreased base lung capacity.<ref name="emedicine"/>

Many scales have been developed to determine the degree of deformity in the chest wall. Most of these are variants on the distance between the sternum and the [[Vertebral column|spine]]. One such index is the ''Backer ratio'' which grades the severity of deformity based on the ratio between the diameter of the vertebral body nearest to [[xiphosternal junction]] and the distance between the xiphosternal junction and the nearest vertebral body.<ref name="pmid13685690">{{cite journal |vauthors=Backer OG, Brunner S, Larsen V |title=The surgical treatment of funnel chest. Initial and follow-up results |journal=Acta Chirurgica Scandinavica |volume=121 |pages=253–61 |year=1961 |pmid=13685690 }}</ref> More recently the [[Haller index]] has been used based on [[CT scan]] measurements. An index over 3.25 is often defined as severe.<ref>{{cite book |author1=Jeannette Diana-Zerpa |author2=Nancy Thacz Browne |author3=Laura M. Flanigan |author4=Carmel A. McComiskey |author5=Pam Pieper |title=Nursing Care of the Pediatric Surgical Patient (Browne, Nursing Care of the Pediatric Surgical Patient) |publisher=Jones & Bartlett Publishers |location=Sudbury, Mass |year=2006 |page=253 |isbn=978-0-7637-4052-8 }}</ref> The Haller index is the ratio between the horizontal distance of the inside of the ribcage and the shortest distance between the vertebrae and sternum.<ref name="pmid3681619">{{cite journal |vauthors=Haller JA, Kramer SS, Lietman SA |title=Use of CT scans in selection of patients for pectus excavatum surgery: a preliminary report |journal=Journal of Pediatric Surgery |volume=22 |issue=10 |pages=904–6 |year=1987 |pmid=3681619 |doi= 10.1016/S0022-3468(87)80585-7}}</ref>

[[File:Trichterbrust im Roentgenbild des Thorax pa.jpg|thumb|Pectus excavatum on PA chest radiograph with shift of heart shadow to the left and radioopacity of the right paracardiac lung field]]

[[Chest x-ray]]s are also useful in the diagnosis. The chest x-ray in pectus excavatum can show an opacity in the right lung area that can be mistaken for an infiltrate (such as that seen with [[pneumonia]]).<ref name="pmid2392647">{{cite journal |vauthors=Hoeffel JC, Winants D, Marcon F, Worms AM |title=Radioopacity of the right paracardiac lung field due to pectus excavatum (funnel chest) |journal=Röntgen-Blätter |volume=43 |issue=7 |pages=298–300 |year=1990 |pmid=2392647 }}</ref> Some studies also suggest that the [[Haller index]] can be calculated based on chest x-ray as opposed to CT scanning in individuals who have no limitation in their function.<ref name="pmid18206458">{{cite journal |vauthors=Mueller C, Saint-Vil D, Bouchard S |title=Chest x-ray as a primary modality for preoperative imaging of pectus excavatum |journal=Journal of Pediatric Surgery |volume=43 |issue=1 |pages=71–3 |year=2008 |pmid=18206458 |doi=10.1016/j.jpedsurg.2007.09.023 }}</ref>

Pectus excavatum is differentiated from other disorders by a series of elimination of signs and symptoms. [[Pectus carinatum]] is excluded by the simple observation of a collapsing of the [[sternum]] rather than a protrusion. [[Kyphoscoliosis]] is excluded by diagnostic imaging of the spine, wherein pectus excavatum, the spine usually appears normal in structure.{{citation needed|date=October 2020}}

==Treatment==
Pectus excavatum requires no corrective procedures in mild cases.<ref>{{Cite book|title=Nelson Textbook of Pediatrics|last=Klingman|first=RM|publisher=Elsevier|year=2011|location=Philadelphia, PA}}{{page needed|date=November 2021}}</ref>  Treatment of severe cases can involve either [[Invasive (medical)|invasive]] or [[Non-invasive (medical)|non-invasive]] techniques or a combination of both. Before an operation proceeds, several tests are usually performed. These include, but are not limited to, a [[CT scan]], [[pulmonary function test]]s, and [[cardiology]] exams (such as auscultation and [[ECG]]s).<ref name=Crump1992>{{cite journal |author=Crump HW |title=Pectus excavatum |journal=Am Fam Physician |volume=46 |issue=1 |pages=173–9 |year=1992 |pmid=1621629 |url=http://findarticles.com/p/articles/mi_m3225/is_n1_v46/ai_12450746 |type=Review}}</ref>  After a CT scan is taken, the [[Haller index]] is measured. The patient's Haller is calculated by obtaining the ratio of the transverse diameter (the horizontal distance of the inside of the ribcage) and the anteroposterior diameter (the shortest distance between the vertebrae and sternum).<ref>{{cite journal |last1=Rebeis |first1=Eduardo Baldassari |last2=Samano |first2=Marcos Naoyuki |last3=Dias |first3=Carlos Tadeu dos Santos |last4=Fernandez |first4=Ângelo |last5=Campos |first5=José Ribas Milanez de |last6=Jatene |first6=Fábio Biscegli |last7=Oliveira |first7=Sérgio Almeida de |title=Índice antropométrico para classificação quantitativa do pectus excavatum |trans-title=Anthropometric index for quantitative assessment of pectus excavatum |language=pt |journal=Jornal Brasileiro de Pneumologia |date=December 2004 |volume=30 |issue=6 |pages=501–507 |doi=10.1590/S1806-37132004000600003 |doi-access=free }}</ref> A Haller Index of greater than 3.25 is generally considered severe, while normal chest has an index of 2.5.<ref name="pmid3681619"/><ref>{{cite journal |last1=Swoveland |first1=Barbara |last2=Medvick |first2=Clare |last3=Kirsh |first3=Marilyn |last4=Thompson |first4=G. Kevin |last5=Nuss |first5=Donald |title=The Nuss Procedure for Pectus Excavatum Correction |journal=AORN Journal |date=December 2001 |volume=74 |issue=6 |pages=827–841 |doi=10.1016/S0001-2092(06)61501-9 |pmid=11795057 }}</ref><ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.cigna.com/customer_care/healthcare_professional/coverage_positions/medical/mm_0309_coveragepositioncriteria_surgical_treatment_chest_wall_deformities.pdf |title=Pectus Excavatum overview |work=[[CIGNA]]}}</ref> The cardiopulmonary tests are used to determine the lung capacity and to check for heart murmurs.<ref>{{cite journal |last1=Albouaini |first1=K. |last2=Egred |first2=M. |last3=Alahmar |first3=A. |last4=Wright |first4=D. J. |title=Cardiopulmonary exercise testing and its application |journal=Postgraduate Medical Journal |date=1 November 2007 |volume=83 |issue=985 |pages=675–682 |doi=10.1136/hrt.2007.121558 |pmid=17989266 |pmc=2734442 }}</ref>

===Conservative treatment===
The chest wall is elastic, gradually stiffening with age.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.spirxpert.com/collegeUK/k.htm|title=Lung elasticity, thorax, and age|access-date=14 April 2016|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160502093959/http://www.spirxpert.com/collegeUK/k.htm|archive-date=2 May 2016}}</ref> Non-surgical treatments have been developed that aim at gradually alleviating the pectus excavatum condition, making use of the elasticity of the chest wall, including the [[costal cartilage]]s, in particular in young cases.

====Exercise====
[[Physical exercise]] has an important role in conservative pectus excavatum treatment, though it is not seen as a means to resolve the condition on its own. It is used in order to halt or slow the progression of mild or moderate excavatum conditions<ref name="Mattei2011-p315">{{cite book|author=Peter Mattei|title=Fundamentals of Pediatric Surgery|url=https://books.google.com/books?id=-AAD9WiIZLAC&pg=PA315|date=15 February 2011|publisher=Springer Science & Business Media|isbn=978-1-4419-6643-8|pages=315}}</ref><ref name="Schwabegger2011-p118">{{cite book|author=Anton H. Schwabegger|title=Congenital Thoracic Wall Deformities: Diagnosis, Therapy and Current Developments|url=https://books.google.com/books?id=ZTOFz4FlKdAC&pg=PA118|date=15 September 2011|publisher=Springer Science & Business Media|isbn=978-3-211-99138-1|pages=118}}</ref> and as supplementary treatment to improve a [[poor posture]], to prevent secondary complications, and to prevent relapse after treatment.<ref name="IIIMurphy2014-p270">{{cite book|author1=George W. Holcomb III|author2=Jerry D Murphy|author3=Daniel J Ostlie|title=Ashcraft's Pediatric Surgery|url=https://books.google.com/books?id=dWLbAgAAQBAJ&pg=PA270|date=31 January 2014|publisher=Elsevier Health Sciences|isbn=978-0-323-18736-7|pages=270}}</ref>

Exercises are aimed at [[Neutral spine|improving posture]], strengthening back and chest muscles, and enhancing exercise capacity, ideally also increasing chest expansion.<ref name="SpitzCoran2013-p251">{{cite book|author1=Lewis Spitz|author2=Arnold Coran|title=Operative Pediatric Surgery, Seventh Edition|url=https://books.google.com/books?id=SS3N2Bo6fNYC&pg=PA251|date=21 May 2013|publisher=CRC Press|isbn=978-1-4441-1715-8|pages=251}}</ref> Pectus exercises include deep breathing and breath holding exercises,<ref name="Mattei2011-p315"/> as well as [[strength training]] for the back and chest muscles. Additionally, [[aerobic exercise]]s to improve [[cardiopulmonary]] function are employed.<ref name="Schwabegger2011-p118"/>

====Vacuum bell====
[[File:Miseczka prozniowa Eckart Klobe.jpg|thumb|Vacuum bell for pectus excavatum treatment, with hand pump (left) and measuring rod (right)]]

An alternative to surgery, the vacuum bell, was described in 2006; the procedure is also referred to as treatment by ''cup suction''. It consists of a bowl-shaped device that fits over the caved-in area; the air is then removed by the use of a hand pump.<ref name="vacuum bell chkd">{{citation|title=chkd|url=http://www.chkd.org/Services/NussProcedure/VacuumBell.aspx|publisher=Children's Hospital of the King's Daughters|location=Norfolk, VA|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131011124108/http://www.chkd.org/Services/NussProcedure/VacuumBell.aspx|archive-date=2013-10-11}}</ref> The vacuum created by this lifts the sternum upwards, lessening the severity of the deformity.<ref name="Haecker">{{cite journal | last=Haecker | first=FM |author2=Mayr J | title=The vacuum bell for treatment of pectus excavatum: an alternative to surgical correction? | journal=European Journal of Cardio-Thoracic Surgery | volume=29 | issue=4 | pages=557–561 |date=April 2006 | pmid=16473516 | doi=10.1016/j.ejcts.2006.01.025 | doi-access=free }}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |title=Vacuum Bell Therapy |url=https://pectus-solutions.com/blogs/research/vacuum-bell-therapy |access-date=2025-08-03 |website=Pectus Solutions |language=en}}</ref> It has been proposed as an alternative to surgery in less severe cases.<ref name="pmid22394989">{{cite journal |vauthors=Brochhausen C, Turial S, Müller FK, Schmitt VH, Coerdt W, Wihlm JM, Schier F, Kirkpatrick CJ |title=Pectus excavatum: history, hypotheses and treatment options |journal=Interactive Cardiovascular and Thoracic Surgery |volume=14 |issue=6 |pages=801–6 |year=2012 |pmid=22394989 |pmc=3352718 |doi=10.1093/icvts/ivs045 |type=Review}}</ref> Once the defect visually disappears, two additional years of use of the vacuum bell is required to make what may be a permanent correction.<ref name="massdev">{{citation|title=Non-surgical sunken chest treatment device may eliminate surgery|url=http://www.massdevice.com/news/non-surgical-sunken-chest-treatment-device-may-eliminate-surgery|date=November 2012|publisher=Mass Device}}</ref><ref name="eurekalert">{{cite press release |title=First patients in US receive non-surgical device of sunken chest syndrome |url=https://www.eurekalert.org/news-releases/826616 |publisher=Children's Hospital of The King's Daughters |date=21 November 2012 }}</ref> The treatment, in combination with physiotherapy exercises, has been judged by some as "a promising useful alternative" to surgery provided the thorax is flexible; the duration of treatment that is required has been found to be "directly linked to age, severity and the frequency of use".<ref name="pmid26526206">{{cite journal |vauthors=Lopez M, Patoir A, Costes F, Varlet F, Barthelemy JC, Tiffet O |title=Preliminary study of efficacy of cup suction in the correction of typical pectus excavatum |journal=Journal of Pediatric Surgery |volume=51 |issue=1 |pages=183–7 |year=2016 |pmid=26526206 |doi=10.1016/j.jpedsurg.2015.10.003 |type=Review}}</ref><ref name="pmid29078491">{{cite journal |vauthors=Haecker FM, Sesia S |title=Non-surgical treatment of pectus excavatum |journal=Journal of Visualized Surgery |volume=2 |pages=63 |year=2016 |pmid=29078491 |pmc=5638434 |doi=10.21037/jovs.2016.03.14 |doi-access=free }}</ref> Long-term results are still{{when|date=February 2025}} lacking.<ref name="pmid22394989" /><ref name="pmid26526206" /><ref name="pmid29078491" />

A single-center study reported in the [[Journal of Pediatric Surgery]] found that use of vacuum bell therapy resulted in an excellent correction in twenty percent of patients, but "is not a substitute for the [[Nuss procedure]] which can achieve an excellent result in 90% of patients".<ref name="JPEDSUR">{{cite journal |last1=Obermeyer |first1=Robert J. |last2=Cohen |first2=Nina S. |last3=Kelly |first3=Robert E. |last4=Ann Kuhn |first4=M. |last5=Frantz |first5=Frazier W. |last6=McGuire |first6=Margaret M. |last7=Paulson |first7=James F. |title=Nonoperative management of pectus excavatum with vacuum bell therapy: A single center study |journal=Journal of Pediatric Surgery |date=June 2018 |volume=53 |issue=6 |pages=1221–1225 |doi=10.1016/j.jpedsurg.2018.02.088 |pmid=29606411 |s2cid=4554172 }}</ref> Variables predictive of an excellent outcome include age ≤ 11 years, chest wall depth ≤ 1.5&nbsp;cm, chest wall flexibility, and vacuum bell use over 12 consecutive months.<ref name="JPEDSUR" />

In an article published in the journal ''Interactive Cardiovascular and Thoracic Surgery'', the results found that vacuum bell treatment is safe for correcting the deformity non-surgically. The treatment has been shown to have higher success rates in patients who present earlier, have a mild and/or symmetrical deformity, a flexible chest wall and lack of costal flaring.<ref>{{cite journal |last1=Patel |first1=Akshay J |last2=Hunt |first2=Ian |title=Is vacuum bell therapy effective in the correction of pectus excavatum? |journal=Interactive CardioVascular and Thoracic Surgery |date=1 August 2019 |volume=29 |issue=2 |pages=287–290 |doi=10.1093/icvts/ivz082 |pmid=30919892 |doi-access=free }}</ref>

The vacuum bell can also be used in preparation to surgery.<ref name="pmid22394989" /><ref name="pmid29078491" />

====Orthoses====
Brazilian orthopedist [[Sydney Haje]] developed a non-surgical protocol for treating pectus carinatum as well as pectus excavatum. The method involves wearing a compressive [[orthosis]] and adhering to an exercise protocol.<ref name="Haje & de Podestá Haje 2009">{{cite journal |last1=Haje |first1=Sydney Abrão |last2=de Podestá Haje |first2=Davi |title=Orthopedic Approach to Pectus Deformities: 32 Years of Studies |journal=Revista Brasileira de Ortopedia |volume=44 |issue=3 |pages=191–8 |year=2009 |pmid=27004171 |pmc=4783668 |doi=10.1016/S2255-4971(15)30067-7 }}</ref>

Mild cases have also reportedly been treated with [[corset]]-like orthopedic support vests and exercise.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://laceitpe.com |title=LaceIT PE Brace |work=Advanced Orthotic Designs, Inc. }}</ref><ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.orthopectus.net/ |title=Orthopectus |work=Dr. Sydney A. Haje, Ortopedista |access-date=2013-08-30 |archive-date=2018-06-24 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180624140340/http://orthopectus.net/ |url-status=dead }}</ref>

===Thoracic surgery===
[[File:Stilleben coach.jpg|thumb|[[Incentive spirometer]]s deepen lung ventilation after surgery to avoid [[atelectasis]]]]

There has been controversy as to the best surgical approach for the correction of pectus excavatum. It is important for the surgeon to select the appropriate operative approach based on each individual's characteristics.<ref name="Hebra">{{cite journal |last1=Robicsek |first1=Francis |last2=Hebra |first2=André |title=To Nuss or Not to Nuss? Two Opposing Views |journal=Seminars in Thoracic and Cardiovascular Surgery |date=2009 |volume=21 |issue=1 |pages=85–88 |doi=10.1053/j.semtcvs.2009.03.007 |pmid=19632567 }}</ref>
Surgical correction has been shown to repair any functional symptoms that may occur in the condition, such as respiratory problems or heart murmurs, provided that permanent damage has not already arisen from an extremely severe case.<ref>{{cite web |url= https://www.lecturio.com/concepts/thoracic-surgery/ | title= Thoracic Surgery | website= The Lecturio Medical Concept Library |access-date= 2 July 2021}}</ref>

Surgical correction of the pectus excavatum has been shown to significantly improve cardiovascular function;<ref name="pmid16899852">{{cite journal |last1=Malek |first1=Moh H. |last2=Berger |first2=Dale E. |last3=Housh |first3=Terry J. |last4=Marelich |first4=William D. |last5=Coburn |first5=Jared W. |last6=Beck |first6=Travis W. |title=Cardiovascular Function Following Surgical Repair of Pectus Excavatum |journal=Chest |date=August 2006 |volume=130 |issue=2 |pages=506–516 |doi=10.1378/chest.130.2.506 |pmid=16899852 }}</ref> there is inconclusive evidence so far as to whether it might also improve pulmonary function.<ref name="pmid16901712">{{cite journal |last1=Malek |first1=Moh H. |last2=Berger |first2=Dale E. |last3=Marelich |first3=William D. |last4=Coburn |first4=Jared W. |last5=Beck |first5=Travis W. |last6=Housh |first6=Terry J. |title=Pulmonary function following surgical repair of pectus excavatum: a meta-analysis |journal=European Journal of Cardio-Thoracic Surgery |date=October 2006 |volume=30 |issue=4 |pages=637–643 |doi=10.1016/j.ejcts.2006.07.004 |pmid=16901712 |type=Meta-Analysis |doi-access=free }}</ref> One of the most popular techniques for repair of pectus excavatum today is the minimally invasive operation, also known as MIRPE or Nuss technique, with a system of bars made of metal.<ref>{{cite journal |last1=Hebra |first1=André |title=Minimally Invasive Repair of Pectus Excavatum |journal=Seminars in Thoracic and Cardiovascular Surgery |date=2009 |volume=21 |issue=1 |pages=76–84 |doi=10.1053/j.semtcvs.2009.04.005 |pmid=19632566 |pmc=5637818 |type=Review }}</ref><ref name=mmf1>{{Cite journal |last1=Martínez Ferro |first1=M. |last2=Fraire |first2=C. |last3=Rubio |first3=M. |last4=Tamburri |first4=N. |date=April 2005 |title=[Minimally invasive approach of Nuss for the correction of pectus excavatum] |journal=Cirugia Pediatrica: Organo Oficial de la Sociedad Espanola de Cirugia Pediatrica |volume=18 |issue=2 |pages=65–69 |issn=0214-1221 |pmid=16044641}}</ref>

====External perosseous distraction (Ilizarov)====
In 1991, Russian surgeons proposed an extra-thoracic technique that combines gradual perosseous distraction osteosynthesis with an [[Ilizarov apparatus]] mounted outside the chest wall.<ref name="Plakseitchuk1991">{{cite journal
 |last1       = Plakseitchuk
 |first1      = Yu. A.
 |last2       = Gafarov
 |first2      = Kh. Z.
 |last3       = Plakseitchuk
 |first3      = A. Yu.
 |title       = A new method of operative treatment of funnel deformation of chest
 |journal     = Kazan Medical Journal
 |volume      = 72
 |issue       = 6
 |pages       = 404–407
 |year        = 1991
 |doi         = 10.17816/kazmj89501
 |url         = https://kazanmedjournal.ru/kazanmedj/article/view/89501
 |language    = ru
 |access-date = 25 April 2025
}}</ref>
The apparatus is fixed to the clavicles and sternum with transosseous wires; daily distraction of 1–2&nbsp;mm progressively elevates the depressed sternum and costal arches. In a series of 15 patients (children and adults, II–III severity), full correction was achieved within 10–15&nbsp;days, with bar stabilization for 1–2.5 months and favourable cosmetic and functional outcomes.<ref name="Plakseitchuk1991" />  
Key advantages reported were minimal soft-tissue trauma, early mobilisation (2–3 days post-op) and avoidance of an internal support bar or postoperative corset, potentially reducing cardiopulmonary complications.<ref name="Plakseitchuk1991" />

====Magnetic mini-mover procedure====
The magnetic mini-mover procedure (3MP) is a [[minimally invasive procedure]] used to correct pectus excavatum by using two magnets to realign the sternum with the rest of the chest and ribcage.<ref name="Harrison">{{cite journal |last1=Harrison |first1=Michael R. |author1-link=Michael R. Harrison | last2=Estefan-Ventura |first2=Denise |last3=Fechter |first3=Richard |last4=Moran |first4=Arthur M. |last5=Christensen |first5=Darrell |title=Magnetic Mini-Mover Procedure for pectus excavatum |journal=Journal of Pediatric Surgery |date=January 2007 |volume=42 |issue=1 |pages=81–86 |doi=10.1016/j.jpedsurg.2006.09.042 |pmid=17208545 }}</ref> One magnet is inserted 1&nbsp;cm into the patient's body on the lower end of the sternum, the other is placed externally onto a custom fitted brace. These two magnets generate around 0.04&nbsp;[[Tesla (unit)|tesla]] (T) in order to slowly move the sternum outwards over a number of years. The maximum [[magnetic field]] that can be applied to the body safely is around 4&nbsp;T, making this technique safe from a magnetic viewpoint.<ref name="Harrison"/> The 3MP technique's main advantages are that it is more cost-effective than major surgical approaches such as the Nuss procedure and it is considerably less painful postoperatively.

Its effectiveness is limited to younger children in early- to mid-[[puberty]] because older individuals have less compliant (flexible) chest walls.<ref name="Harrison2012">{{cite journal |last1=Harrison |first1=Michael R. |author1-link=Michael R. Harrison |last2=Gonzales |first2=Kelly D. |last3=Bratton |first3=Barbara J. |last4=Christensen |first4=Darrell |last5=Curran |first5=Patrick F. |last6=Fechter |first6=Richard |last7=Hirose |first7=Shinjiro |title=Magnetic mini-mover procedure for pectus excavatum III: safety and efficacy in a Food and Drug Administration-sponsored clinical trial |journal=Journal of Pediatric Surgery |date=January 2012 |volume=47 |issue=1 |pages=154–159 |doi=10.1016/j.jpedsurg.2011.10.039 |pmid=22244409 }}</ref> One potential adverse interaction with other medical devices is possible inactivation of [[artificial pacemaker]]s if present.

====Ravitch technique====
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The Ravitch technique is an invasive surgery that was introduced in 1949<ref>{{cite journal| author=Ravitch MM | title=The Operative Treatment of Pectus Excavatum | journal=Ann Surg |date=April 1949 | volume=129 | issue=4 | pages=429–44 | pmid=17859324 | pmc=1514034 | doi=10.1097/00000658-194904000-00002}}</ref> and developed in the 1950s. It involves creating an incision along the chest through which the cartilage is removed and the sternum detached. A small bar is inserted underneath the sternum to hold it up in the desired position. The bar is left implanted until the cartilage grows back, typically about six months. The bar is subsequently removed in a simple outpatient procedure; this technique is thus a two-stage procedure.{{citation needed|date=October 2020}}

The Ravitch technique is not widely practiced because it is so invasive. It is more often used in older individuals, where the sternum has calcified when the deformity is asymmetrical, or when the less invasive Nuss procedure has proven unsuccessful.<ref>{{cite journal |last1=Luu |first1=Theresa D. |last2=Kogon |first2=Brian E. |last3=Force |first3=Seth D. |last4=Mansour |first4=Kamal A. |last5=Miller |first5=Daniel L. |title=Surgery for Recurrent Pectus Deformities |journal=The Annals of Thoracic Surgery |date=November 2009 |volume=88 |issue=5 |pages=1627–1631 |doi=10.1016/j.athoracsur.2009.06.008 |pmid=19853122 }}</ref>

The Ravitch procedure may be indicated in specific situations. For instance, it can be employed to address complex asymmetry, where the pectus excavatum exhibits a more pronounced depression on one side of the chest compared to the other. Additionally, the Ravitch technique might be considered for older adults whose chest wall has become less flexible.

During a Ravitch procedure, the surgeon creates an incision either along the inframammary fold (below the breast line) or directly over the sternum. Subsequently, the muscles of the chest wall are carefully elevated and detached from the ribs and the sternum.

If the surgeon determines that the shape of the sternum requires correction, small, wedge-shaped sections of bone may be removed from the sternum. This specific step in the procedure is known as an osteotomy. Next, the surgeon removes cartilage from the affected ribs on each side of the sternum.

The surgeon then attaches the chest muscles back into place. If the sternum needs more support, the surgeon may attach part of a muscle from the abdomen higher up under the sternum.

====Nuss procedure====
{{Main|Nuss procedure}}
[[File:Nuss x-ray.jpg|thumb|X-ray of a 15-year-old male after undergoing the Nuss procedure]]

In 1987, [[Donald Nuss]], based at [[Children's Hospital of The King's Daughters]] in [[Norfolk, Virginia]], performed the first minimally invasive repair of pectus excavatum (MIRPE) <ref name="Kardiochirurgia">{{cite journal |last1=Białas |first1=Adam J. |last2=Kempińska-Mirosławska |first2=Bogumiła |title=Minimally invasive repair of pectus excavatum by the Nuss procedure in Poland and worldwide – a summary of 25 years of history |journal=Polish Journal of Cardio-Thoracic Surgery |date=2013 |volume=1 |pages=42–47 |doi=10.5114/kitp.2013.34304 |doi-access=free }}</ref> and presented it much later at a conference in 1997.<ref name="Kardiochirurgia"/><ref>{{cite journal |last1=Nuss |first1=Donald |last2=Kelly |first2=Robert E |last3=Croitoru |first3=Daniel P |last4=Katz |first4=Michael E |title=A 10-year review of a minimally invasive technique for the correction of pectus excavatum |journal=Journal of Pediatric Surgery |date=April 1998 |volume=33 |issue=4 |pages=545–552 |doi=10.1016/s0022-3468(98)90314-1 |pmid=9574749 }}</ref><ref name="Pilegaard">{{cite journal |last1=Pilegaard |first1=H. K. |last2=Licht |first2=P. B. |title=Early results following the Nuss operation for pectus excavatum - a single-institution experience of 383 patients |journal=Interactive Cardiovascular and Thoracic Surgery |date=1 February 2008 |volume=7 |issue=1 |pages=54–57 |doi=10.1510/icvts.2007.160937 |pmid=17951271 |doi-access=free }}</ref>

The minimally invasive repair of pectus excavatum, known as the [[Nuss procedure]], has become a widely adopted surgical technique. This approach involves inserting a custom-bent bar into the chest to correct the sternal depression, aiming to restore a normal chest wall contour.  Prior to the Nuss procedure, patients undergo thorough pre-operative evaluations, including physical examinations, imaging studies (such as CT scans to calculate the Haller index and assess cardiac compression), and cardiopulmonary function tests to determine the severity of the pectus and its impact on the heart and lungs. Studies have consistently shown positive outcomes with the Nuss procedure. For instance, an early experience with 68 patients reported that 93% achieved excellent, very good, or good results following the surgery. This procedure is also characterized by relatively short operative times (averaging around 70 minutes) and a brief hospital stay (mean of 5.7 days). While minor early complications like residual pneumothorax can occur, these often resolve spontaneously.<ref name=mmf1/>

The surgery is performed under general anesthesia, ensuring the patient is completely asleep and pain-free throughout the procedure. Recent advancements in post-operative care, such as the use of bilateral thoracoscopic [[Cryoablation|cryoanalgesia]] ([[cryoablation]] of intercostal nerves) during the minimally invasive repair, have further enhanced patient recovery. This strategy significantly improves post-operative pain control, leading to earlier patient discharge and a substantial reduction in opioid requirements. In some cohorts, a large majority of patients (e.g., 71%) required at most only one dose of opioids for pain management, facilitating a quicker and more comfortable recovery.<ref>{{Cite journal |last1=Cadaval Gallardo |first1=C. |last2=Martínez |first2=J. |last3=Bellía-Munzon |first3=G. |last4=Nazar |first4=M. |last5=Sanjurjo |first5=D. |last6=Toselli |first6=L. |last7=Martínez-Ferro |first7=M. |date=2020-01-20 |title=Thoracoscopic cryoanalgesia: A new strategy for postoperative pain control in minimally invasive pectus excavatum repair |journal=Cirugia Pediatrica: Organo Oficial de la Sociedad Espanola de Cirugia Pediatrica |volume=33 |issue=1 |pages=11–15 |issn=2445-2807 |pmid=32166917}}</ref>

His two-stage procedure, widely known as the ''Nuss procedure'', involves slipping in one or more concave steel bars into the chest, underneath the sternum.<ref name="Pilegaard2016">{{cite journal |last1=Pilegaard |first1=Hans Kristian |date=September 2016 |title=Short Nuss bar procedure |journal=Annals of Cardiothoracic Surgery |volume=5 |issue=5 |pages=513–518 |doi=10.21037/acs.2016.09.06 |pmc=5056936 |pmid=27747185 |doi-access=free }}</ref>

The bar is flipped to a convex position so as to push outward on the sternum, correcting the deformity. The bar usually stays in the body for about two years.<ref name=mmf1/><ref name=mmf2>{{Cite journal |last=Martinez-Ferro |first=Marcelo |date=January 2010 |title=New approaches to pectus and other minimally invasive surgery in Argentina |journal=Journal of Pediatric Surgery |volume=45 |issue=1 |pages=19–26; discussion 26–27 |doi=10.1016/j.jpedsurg.2009.10.003 |issn=1531-5037 |pmid=20105575}}</ref> When the bones have solidified into place, the bar is removed through [[outpatient surgery]].

Although initially designed to be performed in younger children of less than 10 years of age, whose sternum and cartilage is more flexible, there are successful series of Nuss treatment in patients well into their adult life.<ref name="Pilegaard2016"/><ref name=mmf2/><ref>{{Cite journal |last1=Martínez-Ferro |first1=M. |last2=Toselli |first2=L. |last3=Bellía-Munzón |first3=G. |date=2021-10-01 |title=Chest wall malformations: new perspectives in diagnosis and treatment |journal=Cirugia Pediatrica: Organo Oficial de la Sociedad Espanola de Cirugia Pediatrica |volume=34 |issue=4 |pages=171–179 |issn=2445-2807 |pmid=34606696}}</ref>

'''Surgical technique'''

# '''Incision Placement:''' The surgeon typically makes two small incisions, usually about 2-3 centimeters in length, on either side of the chest wall. These incisions are strategically placed laterally, often in the mid-axillary line (along the side of the chest, under the armpit). An additional, even smaller incision (around 1-2 centimeters) is usually made on the lower right or left side of the chest.
# '''Thoracoscopic Guidance:''' The smaller, third incision is used for the insertion of a small video camera called a thoracoscope. This camera provides the surgeon with a real-time, internal view of the chest cavity on a monitor in the operating room. Thoracoscopic guidance is crucial for ensuring the safe and accurate placement of the corrective bar(s) and minimizing the risk of injury to internal organs, particularly the heart and lungs.
# '''Tunnel Creation:''' Using specialized instruments guided by the thoracoscopic view, the surgeon carefully creates a tunnel behind the sternum and in front of the pericardium (the sac surrounding the heart). This tunnel extends from one lateral incision to the other. Meticulous dissection is essential to avoid damaging the heart, lungs, and major blood vessels.
# '''Introducer and Bar Insertion:''' A curved, stainless steel bar, pre-bent to the desired contour based on the patient's chest shape and the degree of correction needed, is attached to a guiding instrument called an introducer. The introducer is then carefully passed through the previously created tunnel, under the sternum. The thoracoscopic camera allows the surgeon to visualize the bar's passage and ensure it is positioned correctly.
# '''Bar Rotation and Placement:''' Once the bar is positioned across the chest, spanning from one lateral incision to the other, the surgeon rotates the bar. This rotation exerts upward pressure on the depressed sternum, lifting it to a more normal, outward position. Often, multiple bars (typically one to three, depending on the extent and shape of the deformity) are used to achieve optimal correction and provide adequate support.
# '''Bar Stabilization:''' To prevent the bars from migrating or shifting after placement, they are typically stabilized using various methods. These can include:
#* '''Stabilizers:''' Small, curved metal plates or clips that are attached to the ends of the bars and secured to the ribs with sutures.
#* '''Sutures:''' Strong, non-absorbable sutures used to secure the bars to the rib cage at multiple points.
#* '''Tissue Ingrowth:''' Over time, scar tissue naturally forms around the bars, further contributing to their stability.
# '''Incision Closure:''' After the bar(s) are securely in place, the thoracoscope and introducer are removed. The small skin incisions are then closed with sutures, which are usually absorbable and dissolve on their own over time, minimizing visible scarring.

====Robicsek technique====
In 1965, [[Francis Robicsek]], based at Charlotte Memorial Hospital, now named [[Carolinas Medical Center]] in [[Charlotte, North Carolina|Charlotte]], North Carolina, developed the Robicsek procedure. Each time the procedure is performed, it is individually tailored based on the extent and location of the deformity in the patient. The operation begins with an incision, no more than 4–6 centimeters, to the sternum. The pectoralis major muscles are then detached from the sternum.  Using the upper limit of the sternal depression as a guide, the deformed cartilages are removed one by one, using sharp and blunt dissection. The lower tip of the sternum is then grabbed with a towel-clip and, using blunt dissection, is freed of tissue connections with the pericardium and the pleura. The sternum is then forcefully bent forward into a corrected position.   To keep the sternum elevated, a piece of mesh is placed under the mobilized sternum and sutured under moderate tension bilaterally to the stumps of the ribs. The pectoralis muscles are united in front of the sternum, and the wound is closed. The Robicsek procedure is a single-stage procedure (one surgery only).<ref name = "Robicsek">{{cite journal |last=Robicsek |first=Francis |author-link=Francis Robicsek |title=Marlex Mesh Support for the Correction of Very Severe and Recurrent Pectus Excavatum |journal=The Annals of Thoracic Surgery |date=July 1978 |volume=26 |issue=1 |pages=80–83 |doi=10.1016/S0003-4975(10)63636-3 |pmid=666414 }}</ref>

The purported advantage of this technique is that it is less invasive than the Ravitch technique, but critics have suggested that the relapse rate may be high due to cartilage and bone displaying memory phenomenon.<ref name = "Hebra"/>

====Wang procedure====
The Wang procedure, pioneered by Dr. Wenlin Wang in 2018, is an innovative surgical approach aimed at treating pectus excavatum across different age groups. Compared with the traditional surgical method, its benefits go beyond less traumas and shorter recovery time;  eliminating the risk of cardiac injury—a critical concern.<ref>{{cite news |title=Wang Procedure|url=https://www.icwsorg.com/wang-procedure }}</ref>

====Pectus Up technique====
In 2016, Carlos Bardají, a Barcelona-based pediatric surgeon, together with Lluís Cassou, a biomedical engineer, published a paper describing an extra-thoracic surgical procedure for the correction of pectus excavatum called Pectus up technique.<ref name="Bardají">{{cite journal |last1=Bardají |first1=Carlos |last2=Cassou |first2=Lluís |title=Taulinoplasty: the traction technique—a new extrathoracic repair for pectus excavatum |journal=Annals of Cardiothoracic Surgery |date=September 2016 |volume=5 |issue=5 |pages=519–522 |doi=10.21037/acs.2016.09.07 |pmid=27747186 |pmc=5056940 |doi-access=free }}</ref> A specially designed implant and traction hardware were developed specifically for the procedure.

In the Pectus up technique, a small hole is drilled into the sternum at the deepest point of the defect, and a double screw is driven into the hole. Then, a stainless steel implant is placed underneath the skin on top of the sternum and ribs, centered over the double screw. Traction tools are then used to lift the sternum up by the double screw using the implant and ribs for traction. Additional screws are then used to secure the implant onto the sternum, holding the sternum in the desired position. Optionally, stainless steel wire may be wrapped around the implant and ribs to further secure the implant in place.

Like the Nuss procedure, Pectus up technique requires follow-up surgery several years later to remove the implanted hardware once the sternum has permanently assumed its new position.

The implant and related hardware used in taulinoplasty is a proprietary product of Ventura Medical Technologies and is marketed as a surgical kit under the brand name Pectus UP.<ref name="Ventura">{{cite web | url=http://pectusup.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/10/Brochure.pdf | title=Pectus UP surgery kit, the solution for Pectus Excavatum | website=Ventura Medical Technologies |access-date=29 November 2019}}</ref>

Pectus up technique was developed to be an alternative to the Nuss procedure that eliminates the risks and drawbacks of entering the thorax. In particular, patients usually have shorter operating and recovery times and less post-operative pain than with the Nuss procedure.

===Plastic surgery===
====Implants====
The implant allows pectus excavatum to be treated from a purely morphological perspective. Today, it is used as a benchmark procedure as it is simple, reliable, and minimally invasive while offering aesthetically pleasing results.<ref>{{cite journal |last1=André |first1=A. |last2=Dahan |first2=M. |last3=Bozonnet |first3=E. |last4=Garrido |first4=I. |last5=Grolleau |first5=J.-L. |last6=Chavoin |first6=J.-P. |title=Pectus excavatum: correction par la technique de comblement avec mise en place d'une prothèse en silicone sur mesure en position rétromusculaire profonde |journal=EMC - Techniques chirurgicales - Chirurgie plastique reconstructrice et esthétique |date=January 2010 |volume=5 |issue=2 |pages=1–9 |doi=10.1016/S1286-9325(10)46685-6 }}</ref> This procedure does not, however, claim to correct existing cardiac and respiratory problems which, in very rare cases, can be triggered by the pectus excavatum condition. For female patients, the potential resulting breast asymmetry can be partially or completely corrected by this procedure.<ref>{{cite journal |last1=Ho Quoc |first1=C. |last2=Chaput |first2=B. |last3=Garrido |first3=I. |last4=André |first4=A. |last5=Grolleau |first5=J.-L. |last6=Chavoin |first6=J.-P. |title=Correction des asymétries mammaires associées au pectus excavatum primaire |trans-title=Management of breast asymmetry associated with primary funnel chest |language=fr |journal=Annales de Chirurgie Plastique Esthétique |date=February 2013 |volume=58 |issue=1 |pages=54–59 |doi=10.1016/j.anplas.2012.07.005 |pmid=22884220 }}</ref>

The process of creating a plaster-cast model, directly on the skin of the patient's thorax, can be used in the design of the implants. The evolution of medical imaging and CAD (computer-aided design)<ref>{{cite web | url=http://www.anatomikmodeling.com/en | title=Pectus Excavatum & Poland Syndrome treatment I AnatomikModeling}}</ref> now allows customised 3D implants to be designed directly from the ribcage, therefore being much more precise, easier to place sub-pectorally and perfectly adapted to the shape of each patient.<ref>{{cite journal |last1=Chavoin |first1=J.-P. |last2=André |first2=A. |last3=Bozonnet |first3=E. |last4=Teisseyre |first4=A. |last5=Arrue |first5=J. |last6=Moreno |first6=B. |last7=Gangloff |first7=D. |last8=Grolleau |first8=J.-L. |last9=Garrido |first9=I. |title=Apport de l'informatique à la sélection des implants mammaires ou à la fabrication sur mesure des implants thoraciques |trans-title=Mammary implant selection or chest implants fabrication with computer help |language=fr |journal=Annales de Chirurgie Plastique Esthétique |date=October 2010 |volume=55 |issue=5 |pages=471–480 |doi=10.1016/j.anplas.2010.08.002 |pmid=20864242 }}</ref> The implants are made of medical silicone rubber, which is resistant to wear and extremely durable (different from the silicone gel used in breast implants). They will last for life (apart from the case of adverse reactions) and are not visible externally.

The surgery is performed under general anesthesia and takes about an hour. The surgeon makes an incision of approximately seven centimetres, prepares the customised space in the chest, inserts the implant deep beneath the muscle, then closes the incision. Post-operative hospitalization is typically around three days.{{citation needed|date=July 2021}}

The recovery after the surgery typically requires only mild pain relief. Post-operatively, a surgical dressing is required for several days and a compression vest for a month following the procedure. A check-up appointment is carried out after a week for puncture of seroma. If the surgery has minimal complications, the patient can resume normal activities quickly, returning to work after 15 days and participating in any sporting activities after three months.{{citation needed|date=July 2021}}

====Lipofilling====
The "lipofilling" technique consists of sucking fat from the patient using a syringe with a large gauge needle (usually from the abdomen or the outer thighs), then, after centrifugation, re-injecting the fat cells beneath the skin into whichever hollow it is needed to fill. This technique is primarily used to correct small defects that may persist after conventional surgical treatment.

==Epidemiology==
Pectus excavatum occurs in an estimated 1 in 150 to 1 in 1000 births, with male predominance (male-to-female ratio of 3:1). In 35% to 45% of cases, family members are affected.<ref name="emedicine">{{EMedicine|article|1004953|Pectus Excavatum}}</ref><ref name="ui">{{cite web |url=http://www.uihealthcare.com/topics/medicaldepartments/surgery/pectusexcavatum/index.html |title=Pectus Excavatum: Frequently Asked Questions: Surgery: UI Health Topics |work=Harold M. Burkhart and Joan Ricks-McGillin}}</ref>

==Notable cases==
American Olympic swimmer [[Cody Miller]] (born 1992) opted not to have treatment for pectus excavatum, even though it limited his lung capacity. He earned a gold medal in 2016.<ref>{{cite web | url=http://www.raredr.com/news/rare-disease-rio-cm | title=Rare Diseases in Rio – Olympic Swimmer Cody Miller | work=Rare Disease Report | access-date=2016-08-08 | archive-date=2017-08-12 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170812021015/http://www.raredr.com/news/rare-disease-rio-cm | url-status=dead }}</ref><ref>[http://www.usaswimming.org/DesktopModules/BioViewManaged.aspx?personid=9dd72b58-4488-43b3-80b3-802734191426&TabId=1453&Mid=10312  Cody Miller] {{webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150402192628/http://www.usaswimming.org/DesktopModules/BioViewManaged.aspx?personid=9dd72b58-4488-43b3-80b3-802734191426&TabId=1453&Mid=10312 |date=2015-04-02 }} – National Team swimmer profile at USASwimming.org</ref><ref>{{cite news|last1=Woods|first1=David|title=Cody Miller is IU's first U.S. Olympic swimmer in 40 years|url=http://www.indystar.com/story/sports/2016/06/27/broken-hand-stops-adams-olympic-qualifying/86206642/|access-date=9 August 2016|newspaper=Indianapolis Star|date=27 June 2016}}</ref>
Actor [[Joel Kinnaman]] underwent surgery prior to the filming of ''[[Altered Carbon (TV series)|Altered Carbon]]'', inserting two metal bars to push the sternum outward in order to correct the deformity.<ref>{{cite news |last1=Gee |first1=Catherine |title=Altered Carbon: the cast of Netflix's sci-fi saga on immortality, fight scenes, and full-frontal nudity |url=https://www.telegraph.co.uk/on-demand/0/altered-carbon-cast-netflixs-sci-fi-saga-immortality-fight-scenes/ |website=The Telegraph |date=1 February 2018}}</ref> English comedian and presenter [[Josh Widdicombe]] and [[YouTuber]]/streamer [[Ludwig Ahgren]] are known to have this condition.<ref>{{cite tweet|number=1312185677421789184|user=LudwigAhgren|title=would you take $1,000,000 to drink fireball out of my chest hole #fireballpartner|date=3 October 2020}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |date=2025-11-03 |title=Celebrities with Pectus Excavatum |url=https://pectus-science.com/2025/11/03/celebrities-with-pectus-excavatum/ |access-date=2025-11-15 |website=pectus science blog |language=en}}</ref> [[Zach Woods]] is another popular American actor who has pectus excavatum, which is noticeable in his shirtless scene in an episode of ''[[The Office (American TV series)|The Office]]'' (Season 8, episode 12).<ref name=":0" /> Dutch bodybuilder, actor and Muscle Meats CEO [[Olivier Richters]], "The Dutch Giant", suffered from the condition before undergoing surgical correction.<ref name=":0">{{Cite web|title=40 Celebrities that have Pectus Excavatum - Life with pectus|url=https://www.lifewithpectus.com/resources/celebrities-with-pectus-excavatum|access-date=2021-11-20|website=www.lifewithpectus.com|language=en}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |date=2017-06-13 |title=Dutch Giant Towers Over Phil Heath, The Mountain, Big Ramy & Others Making Everyone Look Tiny! |url=https://fitnessvolt.com/11603/dutch-giant-towers-phil-heath-mountain-big-ramy-others-making-everyone-look-tiny/ |access-date=2022-12-05 |website=Fitness Volt |language=en-US}}</ref>

Additionally, [[Eric Harris and Dylan Klebold|Eric Harris]], an American mass murderer who perpetrated the [[Columbine High School massacre]], had pectus excavatum.<ref name=":1">{{Cite web |title=Eric Harris's Autopsy Report {{!}} School Shooters .info |url=https://schoolshooters.info/eric-harriss-autopsy-report#:~:text=The%20report%20also%20notes%20that,pectus%20excavatum%20was%20still%20observable |access-date=2023-04-26 |website=schoolshooters.info}}</ref> He had surgery at 12 and 13 to correct the deformity, but it was still visible during his autopsy.<ref name=":1" />

==In non-human animals==
Pectus excavatum is also known to occur in non-human animals, e.g. the [[Munchkin (cat)|Munchkin]] breed of cat.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.messybeast.com/gene-anomalies.htm |title=Genetic Anomalies of Cats }}</ref> Some procedures used to treat the condition in animals have not been used in human treatments, such as the use of a cast with sutures wrapped around the sternum and the use of internal and external [[Splint (medicine)|splints]].<ref>{{cite journal | last=Fossum | first=TW |author2=Boudrieau RJ |author3=Hobson HP |author4=Rudy RL  | title=Surgical correction of pectus excavatum, using external splintage in two dogs and a cat | journal=Journal of the American Veterinary Medical Association | volume=195 | issue=1 | pages=91–7 | year=1989 | doi=10.2460/javma.1989.195.01.91 | pmid=2759902 }}</ref><ref>{{cite journal |vauthors=Risselada M, de Rooster H, Liuti T, Polis I, van Bree H |title=Use of internal splinting to realign a noncompliant sternum in a cat with pectus excavatum |journal=Journal of the American Veterinary Medical Association |volume=228 |issue=7 |pages=1047–52 |year=2006 |pmid=16579783 |doi=10.2460/javma.228.7.1047 |doi-access=free }}</ref> These techniques are generally used in immature animals with flexible cartilage.<ref>{{cite journal |vauthors=McAnulty JF, Harvey CE | title = Repair of pectus excavatum by percutaneous suturing and temporary external coaptation in a kitten | journal = Journal of the American Veterinary Medical Association | volume = 194 | issue = 8 | pages = 1065–7 | year = 1989 | doi = 10.2460/javma.1989.194.08.1065 | pmid = 2651373 }}</ref>

==See also==
* [[Pectus carinatum]]

==References==
{{Reflist|30em}}

==Further reading==
* {{cite journal |vauthors=Tocchioni F, Ghionzoli M, Messineo A, Romagnoli P |title=Pectus excavatum and heritable disorders of the connective tissue |journal=Pediatric Reports |volume=5 |issue=3 |pages=e15 |year=2013 |pmid=24198927 |pmc=3812532 |doi=10.4081/pr.2013.e15 |type=Review}}
* {{cite journal |vauthors=Jaroszewski D, Notrica D, McMahon L, Steidley DE, Deschamps C |title=Current management of pectus excavatum: a review and update of therapy and treatment recommendations |journal=Journal of the American Board of Family Medicine |volume=23 |issue=2 |pages=230–9 |year=2010 |pmid=20207934 |doi=10.3122/jabfm.2010.02.090234 |type=Review|doi-access=free }}
* [http://www.ctds.info/pectus_excavatum.html www.ctds.info] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190327211051/http://www.ctds.info/pectus_excavatum.html |date=2019-03-27 }}

== External links ==
{{Commons category}}
{{Wiktionary}}

{{Medical resources
|  DiseasesDB = 29401
|  ICD10 = {{ICD10|Q|67|6|q|65}}
|  ICD9 = {{ICD9|754.81}}
|  ICDO =
|  OMIM = 169300
|  MedlinePlus = 003320
|  eMedicineSubj = ped
|  eMedicineTopic = 2558
|  MeshID = D005660
}}
{{Congenital malformations and deformations of musculoskeletal system}}
{{Authority control}}

[[Category:Congenital disorders of musculoskeletal system]]