Pectus Excavatum
Pectus excavatum, also known as sunken chest, is a congenital heart defect (present at birth) in which the rib cage grows inward, resulting in a noticeable and sometimes severe indentation of the chest wall. While the sunken breastbone is often noticeable shortly after birth, the severity of pectus excavatum typically worsens during the adolescent growth spurt. Pectus excavatum can be corrected with the minimally-invasive surgical technique called the Nuss procedure.
Causes of Pectus Excavatum
While the exact cause of pectus excavatum is unknown, it may be an inherited condition because it sometimes runs in families.
Symptoms of Pectus Excavatum
For many people with pectus excavatum, their only sign or symptom is a slight indentation in their chests. In some people, the depth of the indentation worsens in early adolescence and can continue to worsen into adulthood. In severe cases of pectus excavatum, the breastbone may compress the lungs and heart. Signs and symptoms may include:
- Heart palpitations
- Recurrent respiratory infections
- Wheezing or coughing
- Chest pain
- Heart murmur
- Fatigue
Diagnosis of Pectus Excavatum
Pectus excavatum can usually be diagnosed simply by examining the chest. But your doctor may suggest several different types of tests to check for associated problems with the heart and lungs. These diagnostic tests may include:
- X-Rays (barium swallow test)
- Computed tomography (CT scan)
- Electrocardiogram (EKG/ECG)
- Echocardiogram (ECHO)
- Lung function tests
Treatment of Pectus Excavatum
People who have mild signs and symptoms may be helped by physical therapy. For those individuals with moderate to severe signs and symptoms, surgery may be required. If that’s the case: