Pectus Carinatum
What Is Pectus Carinatum?
Pectus carinatum sometimes referred to as pigeon chest, is a chest wall deformity characterised by an outward prominence of the sternum and rib cartilage. The exact cause is not fully understood, although the condition can occur in families and may have a genetic component. It often becomes more noticeable during the adolescent growth spurt.
For many people, pectus carinatum is primarily a physical appearance concern and does not cause significant symptoms. Some individuals may experience chest discomfort, tenderness, shortness of breath or exercise-related symptoms, particularly with more pronounced deformities.
At Ability Prosthetics & Orthotics, we provide customised bracing solutions for pectus carinatum, helping children and adolescents manage the condition without surgery where bracing is clinically appropriate.A clinical assessment is important to determine the severity of the chest wall deformity and the most appropriate treatment approach.
Pectus Carinatum Bracing
Pectus carinatum bracing is a non-surgical treatment option commonly used for children and adolescents whose chest wall is still flexible.
A pectus carinatum brace applies controlled pressure to the prominent area of the chest. With consistent use, this pressure can gradually remodel the chest wall while it is still developing. Bracing tends to be most effective when treatment begins before the chest wall becomes more rigid.
The brace is fitted to the individual’s chest shape and can be adjusted as the child grows and the chest wall changes.
How Does a Pectus Carinatum Brace Work?
A pectus carinatum brace uses strategically positioned pads to apply controlled pressure to the prominent area of the chest while providing counter-pressure elsewhere on the torso.
The aim is to gradually encourage the chest wall towards a more normal position over time. Unlike a rigid device intended to immobilise the chest, a pectus carinatum brace uses controlled external pressure to influence the shape of the developing chest wall.
Treatment requires consistency. The recommended wearing schedule varies according to the individual and should be determined by the treating clinical team.
Who Can Benefit From Pectus Carinatum Bracing?
Bracing is generally most suitable for children and adolescents with a flexible chest wall, particularly while they are still growing. The suitability of bracing depends on factors such as:
- The severity and shape of the chest wall deformity
- The flexibility of the chest wall
- Age and stage of growth
- The individual’s symptoms and treatment goals
- Ability to consistently wear the brace
- The recommendations of the treating medical team
Early assessment can be beneficial because the chest wall is generally more responsive to corrective pressure while it is still developing.
What to Expect During Pectus Carinatum Treatment
Pectus carinatum bracing is a gradual process rather than an overnight correction. Treatment duration and wearing schedules vary between individuals and depend on factors such as age, chest wall flexibility, severity of the deformity and consistency of brace use.
During treatment, your clinician may monitor:
- Changes in chest wall shape
- Brace fit and comfort
- Skin condition
- Pressure and positioning of the brace
- Growth and physical development
- Progress towards treatment goals
If the brace becomes painful, causes significant skin irritation or no longer fits correctly, it should be reviewed by the clinician who fitted it.