Breastbone Deformity (Pectus Excavatum)

Usually present at birth, pectus excavatum is a deformity in the chest caused by the improper growth of the sternum and part of the rib cage. It causes the chest to look as if it is caved in, especially as a child reaches puberty. Left unchecked, this condition – also known as “funnel chest” – can impair the cardiac and respiratory functions and/or cause pain in the chest and back. Repairing the deformity may entail minimally invasive surgery in which a curved metal bar (or bars) is placed under the sternum to raise it into place. This bar can usually be removed within about two years.