Pectus Excavatum

In mild cases, pectus excavatum does not affect health and patients typically present with psychological concerns about chest wall appearance. Pectus excavatum occurs in approximately 1 in 400 to 1 in 1,000 people. Pectus excavatum is a congenital chest wall deformity in which the sternum is displaced posteriorly toward the spine, reducing intrathoracic space. In severe pectus excavatum, cardiopulmonary compression restricts right ventricular filling, producing a fixed stroke volume and cardiac output. The key movement implication of pectus excavatum is impaired pump-handle mechanics. Pectus excavatum may restrict anterior upper thorax expansion and thoracic movement. Severe pectus excavatum symptoms impair physical function and reduce health-related quality of life. Exercise-provoked symptoms in severe pectus excavatum include dyspnoea, tachycardia, presyncope or syncope, dizziness, and pain. Surgery is not necessary for every person with pectus excavatum and depends on severity, symptoms, movement limits, and medical evaluation. Severe pectus excavatum can compress the heart, reduce stroke volume, and contribute to cardiopulmonary symptoms. Pectus excavatum is a sunken chest con…