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Thoracic Wall Deformities

Thoracic wall deformities refer to structural abnormalities of the chest wall that can impact mainly appearance and in severe cases cardiopulmonary function.

Here’s an overview of two common types:

  1. Pectus excavatum
    Pectus excavatum, often referred to as funnel chest, is the most prevalent chest wall deformity.
    Characteristics:
    - The sternum (breastbone) is sunken or depressed.
    - Severity can vary from mild to severe.
    - It is more frequently observed in males.
  2. Pectus carinatum
    Pectus carinatum, commonly known as pigeon chest, features an outward protrusion of the sternum and ribs.
    Characteristics:
    - The breastbone protrudes outward.
    - This condition is more common in males and can develop or worsen during growth spurts in adolescence.

Pectus Excavatum

Individuals with pectus excavatum may experience shortness of breath, especially during physical activities, along with chest pain and decreased exercise tolerance. There can also be psychological effects, including impacts on self-image and confidence.

Pectus Carinatum

Symptoms may include chest pain or tenderness, difficulty with exercise, and feelings of self-consciousness regarding one’s appearance.

Thoracic wall deformities are typically diagnosed through a combination of a physical examination and imaging studies, such as chest X-rays and CT scans, which help assess the severity and any effects on internal organs.

Treatment strategies depend on the severity of the deformity and the symptoms present:

  • Observation: Mild cases may simply be monitored.
  • Bracing: Particularly effective for pectus carinatum.
  • Surgical correction:
    -The Nuss procedure is a minimally invasive option for pectus excavatum.
    - Open surgical repair may be necessary for more severe cases of perctus carinatum.
  • Physical therapy: Aimed at improving posture and flexibility of the chest wall.
  • Psychological support: Addressing self-image concerns can be an important aspect of overall care.

Early diagnosis and management are essential for improving both physical health and psychological well-being in patients with thoracic wall deformities.

Thoracic Surgery

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