Pectus excavatum

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Pectus excavatum

Pectus excavatum repair - series

Ribcage

Funnel chest

• Trouble breathing develops
• You notice decreased exercise tolerance
• Chest pain develops
• Redness, swelling, or discharge from the area is noticed
• Pectus excavatum should be discussed with your health care provider at each regular visit

The medical history will be obtained and a physical examination performed.

Medical history questions documenting pectus excavatum in detail may include:

• When did you first notice this?
• Is it getting better, worse, or staying the same?
• Have any other family members had an unusual-shaped chest?
• What other symptoms are present?

Physical examination:

An infant with pectus excavatum may have other symptoms and signs that, when taken together, define a specific syndrome or condition.

Diagnostic tests:

Laboratory studies such as chromosome studies, enzyme assays, X-rays, or metabolic studies may be ordered to confirm the presence of a suspected disorder.

Intervention:

This condition can be surgically repaired. Surgery is generally advised if associated problems such as difficulty with exercise develop. In addition, some people undergo surgery for cosmetic reasons. Your health care provider can assist you in making decisions about therapy.

After seeing your health care provider:

If a diagnosis was made by your health care provider related to pectus excavatum, you may want to note that diagnosis in your personal medical record.

Review Date: 12/01/2005
Reviewed By: Daniel Rauch, MD, FAAP, Director, Pediatric Hospitalist Program, Associate Professor of Pediatrics, NYU School of Medicine, New York, NY. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.