What is Pectus?

Pectus is a term that refers to any deformity of the ribcage in the area where the ribs connect to the sternum.

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There are a few variations of this deformity: Pectus Excavatum, Pectus Carinatum, and Pectus Arcuatum.

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Pectus Excavatum, often called "funnel" or "sunken chest", is the most common pectus deformity and is characterized by a depression or concavity of the sternum.

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Pectus Carinatum, often called "pigeon chest", describes any abnormal  protrusion of the sternum or chest wall.

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Pectus Arcuatum is a rare variation that can include a combination of a depression and protrusion of the sternum.

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Pectus deformities are quite common, effecting around 1 in every 300 children. Despite how common this disease is, it is still in a gray area of the medical field and is widely considered a "cosmetic" issue to most physicians and insurance companies, particularly in the United States.

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Not every case of Pectus is accompanied by symptoms initially, but because many children grow up with it, they simply don't realize they have been experiencing shortness of breath, exercise intolerance, heart palpitations etc. because it's "normal" for them.

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Many Physicians will diagnose these children with anxiety or asthma and dismiss Pectus entirely as a source of these symptoms.

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Many others with Pectus do not start experiencing symptoms until their early 20's as this is when growth plates fuse, and the sternum and ribs become more rigid. When the flexibility of youth is gone, symptoms often continue to worsen.

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Because of this many people with Pectus do not start seeking help until their 20's. This can make the process much more difficult as Pectus is generally considered a pediatric issue, and most Pectus specialists do not operate on adults.

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Whether you're struggling to find the right specialist, wrestling with your insurance company, or s need a specific exercise program to help manage your Pectus, we are dedicated to helping you find the best solution for you.

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