Pectus Carinatum, which is referred to as “pigeon chest,” is one of the most common chest wall deformities. The outward appearance is caused by overgrowth of costal cartilage causing the sternum (breastbone) and ribs to protrude forward, or because the sternum itself is angled outward along
the midline. It can also be seen after a child has undergoneopen heart surgery.
This condition seems to appear more often in boys and it usually develops later for them than it does for young girls. The severity of this abnormality generally worsens during growth spurts in late childhood and adolescence. The deformity may be very minor in early childhood and may suddenly become severe during puberty and adolescence.
Causes & Symptoms: What Causes Pectus Carinatum?
The cause is unknown, however, it may be genetically linked considering it recurs in families. Pectus Carinatum also tends to occur with growth disturbance diseases such as Marfan syndrome and Ehler-Danlos syndrome. The deformity of the sternum is caused by the abnormal growth of the ribs and breast bone cartilage.
Are There Any Symptoms Associated With Pectus Carinatum?
There are very few symptoms associated with the deformity, but in some cases children will experience tenderness and pain during exercises or other times of increased respiratory effort. It does not affect heart development/cardiac function. Some other conditions that have been seen in children with Pectus Carinatum include scoliosis, mitral valve prolapse and
connective tissue disorders. Pectus Carinatum may lead to major psychosocial problems (ie body image perception) in many children.
Treatment:
How Do You Treat Pectus Carinatum?
There are two forms of treatment of Pectus Carinatum: surgery & external bracing.
In severe cases, surgery is used to restore normal chest contour. In mild to moderate cases, a custom designed external brace that applies direct pressure to the area of sternal protrusion can correct the condition, however, compliance is key.
How Do I Decide Which Method, Surgical vs. Non-Surgical, Is
Best For My Child?
It all begins with an evaluation by your child’s physician, who
then will refer you to a surgeon with significant expertise in
the management of congenital chest wall malformations.
Your surgeon will evaluate your child and discuss the
treatment options of the Pectus Carinatum. Together you will
decide which treatment option is best suited for you and your
child. If the patient is a good candidate for a brace, we will
refer you to an orthotist (bracing expert).
My partners and I see patients throughout the state. We currently see patients in Summerville SC, Mount Pleasant SC, North Charleston SC, Charleston SC, and Beaufort SC.