Pectus carinatum is a rare condition that affects nearly 1 in 1000 teens. It affects a person's chest wall, causing it to stand outward. The condition is commonly known as “pigeon chest” due to the shape of the chest wall when affected.
This condition can be very uncomfortable and affect a person’s quality of life and self-esteem. The treatment can include a variety of options. And early identification is crucial, so that professionals can cure it with noninvasive methods. So, if you or someone you know is dealing with pectus carinatum, look no further. In this article, we are going to show you:
Pectus carinatum is a medical condition that affects the development of the chest wall. It’s a condition of abnormal growth of the cartilage and ribs of the chest wall, causing it to bulge outwards. Due to the shape of the chest wall, the disease is sometimes called “pigeon chest.” It's usually present at birth but can also develop during childhood or adolescence. And it’s more common in males than females. The condition can range from mild to severe:
Symptoms of pectus carinatum include:
The exact cause of pectus carinatum is unknown. Yet, some factors may contribute to the development of the condition. These factors include:
Pectus carinatum can be diagnosed through physical examination, imaging tests, and genetic tests.
Treatment for pectus carinatum depends on the severity of the condition. In mild cases, no treatment may be necessary. Yet, in more severe cases, professionals may suggest treatment. Because it can be necessary to reduce the symptoms and improve the appearance of the chest wall. One of the most common treatments for pectus carinatum is a surgical procedure. It involves the insertion of a metal bar into the chest wall to push the chest wall back into its normal position. This procedure is usually done under general anesthesia, and is very invasive. You can also treat it by using a brace to help push the chest wall back into its normal position. It can be an effective treatment, and it’s way less invasive than a surgical procedure. The downside is that it must be worn several hours a day for several months to be effective. Bracing is more effective for treating the condition in young children because they have more flexible chests. Once the kid starts to grow, and the bones become more rigid and formed, bracing isn’t so effective. Because of that, pectus carinatum must be diagnosed and treated as early as possible. Next Steps Pectus carinatum is a medical condition that can affect your self-esteem, and cause physical symptoms. If you or someone you know is living with pectus carinatum, getting treatment is important to reduce the symptoms and improve the quality of life. If you want to learn more about the best treatment for your specific case, book an appointment with us. We will give you specific directions based on our expertise. You can also take advantage of some publicly available resources:
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June 2023
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