Pectus carinatum

Abstract

Purpose of review: Pectus carinatum has been termed the undertreated chest wall deformity. Recent advances in patient evaluation and management, including the development of nonoperative bracing protocols, have improved the care of children with this condition.

Recent findings: Recent evidence confirms that children with pectus carinatum have a disturbed body image and a reduced quality of life. Treatment has been shown to improve the psychosocial outcome of these patients.

Summary: Patients with pectus carinatum are at risk for a disturbed body image and reduced quality of life. Until recently, treatment required surgical reconstruction. A growing body of literature, however, now supports the use of orthotic bracing as a nonoperative alternative in select patients. This article reviews the current literature and describes the evaluation and management of children with pectus carinatum deformity.