Pectus Excavatum – A Fairly Common Condition That’s Often Overlooked

UPMC Children’s in Harrisburg evaluates and treats children and young adults with pectus excavatum, a relatively common condition, affecting approximately 1 in 400 individuals. Led by Dr. Shawn Safford, MD, MBA, the team is committed to improving the lives of patients with pectus excavatum. 
 
Pectus excavatum or commonly known as “sunken chest” or “funnel chest,” is a congenital deformity of the chest wall. Pectus excavatum occurs due to an abnormal growth of the rib cage and sternum during fetal development. The exact cause is not fully understood, but genetic factors play a significant role. Other potential factors include connective tissue disorders and hormonal imbalances.
 
Most people do not experience symptoms with pectus excavatum, causing some to consider it only a cosmetic deformity. Depending on severity, pectus excavatum can cause compression of the heart and lungs, impairing cardiac and respiratory functions. Severe cases may cause heart murmurs or arrhythmias. Adolescents with pectus excavatum may experience self-esteem issues due to the visible deformity.
 
Treatment Options
 
Non-Surgical:
Observation: Mild cases may not require treatment. Regular monitoring is essential to assess any progression.
 
Physical Therapy: Exercises to improve posture and strengthen chest muscles can help manage symptoms.
 
Nonoperative management: In a select number of children with mild defects, a suction cup device (Vacuum Bell) can be applied to improve the contour of the chest. 
 
Surgical Correction:
Nuss Procedure: A minimally invasive surgery where a curved metal bar is inserted under the sternum to lift it into a more normal position.
 
Ravitch Procedure: A more traditional open surgery that involves reshaping the chest wall and stabilizing it with surgical implants.
 
Surgical correction can significantly improve chest appearance and lung function, leading to improved self-esteem, body image, lung capacity, and cardiovascular function, which enhances overall quality of life.
 
Pectus excavatum is a challenging condition, but early diagnosis and appropriate treatment can lead to positive outcomes. Consultation with a pediatric specialist is crucial to determine the best approach for each individual patient.
 
Every case is unique, and personalized care is essential for optimal results. If you or someone you know has pectus excavatum, speak to your pediatrician or primary care provider to seek medical advice promptly and explore treatment options and improve overall well-being. 
 
Dr. Safford has spent the last 15 years performing the surgery on many children with chest wall deformities across the mid-Atlantic region.  Dr. Safford is one of the most experienced surgeons for this condition in the region.  For more information about UPMC Children’s in Central Pa. and its services for the most common to complex conditions, please visit UPMC.com/CentralPaPediatrics.