Pectus excavatum is a common chest wall deformity of children. It is more common in boys than in girls. Chest bents inward, looking like a funnel, especially at the low end of breast bone. Because the sunken chest wall presses heart and lungs, patients may have frequent upper respiratory tract infection. Some patients have palpitation and shortness of breath after exercise. Surgery can correct deformity and relieve pressure on heart and lungs. Heart and lung function will improve and spine curvature can be prevented. Improvement of physical appearance may also help patients be more confident with their body shape.
How is Pectus excavatum treated in practice?