UNDERSTANDING PECTUS
What is Pectus Excavatum?
Pectus excavatum is a chest wall condition in which the breastbone, or sternum, grows inward, creating a sunken appearance of the chest. The degree of chest wall depression can vary from person to person.
PECTUS EXCAVATUM
More Than an Appearance
Pectus excavatum is a condition that is sometimes referred to as a "sunken chest." Estimates of occurrence range from approximately 1 in 400 to 1 in 1,000 births. While the condition primarily affects the chest's appearance for some, others may experience physical symptoms as a result of the inward growth.
Chest Discomfort
Fatigue
Heart Palpitations
Difficulty During Exercise
Shortness of Breath
Symptoms and severity can vary between individuals. A medical professional should evaluate each patient's condition.
01
ACCESS
Small incisions are made along the sides of the chest to provide access for the procedure.
How is Pectus Excavatum Repaired?
Treatment decisions depend on the individual patient and should be determined by the treating physician. For patients who undergo surgical correction, a minimally invasive Pectus repair may be used.
02
POSITION
A specially shaped support bar is carefully guided beneath the sternum and positioned across the chest.
PECTUS REPAIR
03
SUPPORT & ELEVATE
Once positioned, the bar supports and elevates the sternum to help correct the shape of the chest wall.
