Chest Wall Deformities

Chest wall deformities can affect the shape of the chest as well as comfort, physical activity, and confidence. At the Institute for Thoracic Surgery in Miami, Florida, Mark Dylewski, MD, and the medical team provide thoughtful evaluation and individualized care for congenital chest wall deformities. Whether you’re experiencing physical symptoms or concerns about the appearance of your chest, the team can help you understand your condition and treatment options. Call the office or book an appointment online today.

What are congenital chest wall deformities?

Congenital chest wall deformities are structural conditions that develop as the chest and rib cage form during childhood. Some are noticeable at birth, while others become more apparent as a child grows, particularly during periods of rapid growth.

These conditions can affect the ribs, breastbone (sternum), or overall development and appearance of the chest wall. Two of the most common types are:

• Pectus excavatum: The breastbone appears sunken inward, creating an indentation in the chest.
• Pectus carinatum: The breastbone projects outward from the chest.

Less common chest wall deformities can involve other differences in the development of the ribs, sternum, or surrounding structures.

What symptoms can chest wall deformities cause?

The effects of a chest wall deformity can vary considerably from person to person. Some individuals have no significant physical symptoms, while others experience:

• Chest discomfort
• Shortness of breath during activity
• Reduced exercise tolerance
• Difficulty participating in certain physical activities
• Concerns about the shape or appearance of the chest

Chest wall deformities can also have an emotional and social impact. Changes in chest appearance may affect confidence or body image, particularly during adolescence.

Dr. Dylewski considers both the physical and personal impact of the condition when evaluating your needs.

How are chest wall deformities evaluated?

Evaluation is individualized based on the type of chest wall deformity, your symptoms, and how the condition affects your activity and daily life.

Dr. Dylewski begins with a physical examination and discussion of your medical history, symptoms, activity level, and concerns. Additional evaluation may include imaging studies and pulmonary or cardiac testing when appropriate.

This comprehensive assessment helps determine the severity of the condition and whether treatment may be beneficial.

How are chest wall deformities treated?

Not every chest wall deformity requires treatment. If the condition is mild and isn’t causing significant symptoms or concerns, observation may be appropriate.

When treatment is recommended, options can range from non-surgical approaches to minimally invasive or surgical correction. The appropriate treatment depends on the type and severity of the deformity, your symptoms, age, activity level, and individual goals.

At the Institute for Thoracic Surgery, the goal is to help you and your family understand the condition, available treatment options, and what to expect throughout your care. With appropriate evaluation and an individualized treatment plan, many people with congenital chest wall deformities can experience improved chest-wall function as well as greater confidence in their appearance.

To learn more about chest wall deformities and your treatment options, call the Institute for Thoracic Surgery or schedule a consultation online today.