Pectus Treatment 

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chest wall deformities:

it is congenital ,but become more prominent by time, can be as depression in the chest wall and called funnel chest (pectus excavatum) or protrusion in the chest wall and called pigeon chest ( pectus carinatum) , the simple cases can be corrected by special devices to suck or depress the bones , severe cases needs surgical intervention, nowadays done by assistance of thoracoscopy as minimal invasive procedure to introduce  metal bares, the operations called Nuss and Abramson.

 

Understanding Pectus Conditions

Pectus conditions, such as pectus excavatum and pectus carinatum, are congenital deformities of the chest wall. These conditions can impact physical appearance, respiratory function, and cardiovascular health. DRHC Dubai offers advanced treatments to correct these deformities, improving both the aesthetics and functional health of our patients.

Types of Pectus Conditions

Pectus Excavatum (Funnel Chest)

Pectus excavatum is characterized by a sunken appearance of the chest due to a depression in the sternum. This condition can compress the heart and lungs, leading to:

• Shortness of breath

• Chest pain

• Exercise intolerance

• Reduced cardiac function

• Psychological impact due to cosmetic concerns

Pectus Carinatum (Pigeon Chest)

Pectus carinatum presents as a protrusion of the chest wall, giving it a pigeon-like appearance. It may cause:

• Respiratory issues

• Chest pain

• Poor posture

• Psychological distress

Diagnosis of Pectus Conditions

Diagnosis typically involves a combination of physical examination and imaging studies, including:

• Chest X-ray: To evaluate the severity and exact nature of the deformity.

• CT Scan/MRI: For detailed images of the chest wall, heart, and lungs.

• Echocardiogram: To assess any impact on heart function.

• Pulmonary Function Tests: To evaluate the effect on lung capacity and function.

Treatment Options for Pectus Conditions

1. Non-Surgical Treatments

   • Bracing: Effective for mild to moderate cases of pectus carinatum, especially in children and adolescents. Custom-fitted braces help reshape the chest wall over time.

   • Physical Therapy: Exercises to improve posture, increase chest wall flexibility, and strengthen muscles.

2. Surgical Treatments

   • Nuss Procedure (for Pectus Excavatum): A minimally invasive technique where curved metal bars are inserted under the sternum to elevate and correct the sunken chest. The bars remain in place for several years before being removed.

   • Ravitch Procedure (for Pectus Excavatum and Carinatum): An open surgical method that involves removing abnormal cartilage and repositioning the sternum.

   • Minimally Invasive Repair of Pectus Carinatum: Involves small incisions and the use of a chest compressor to correct the protrusion.

Benefits of Treatment

• Improved Respiratory Function: Correcting the deformity enhances lung capacity and breathing.

• Enhanced Cardiac Function: Reducing the pressure on the heart improves overall cardiovascular health.

• Aesthetic Improvement: Restores a more normal chest appearance, boosting self-esteem and confidence.

• Psychological Benefits: Alleviating physical and emotional distress associated with the condition.

Postoperative Care and Follow-Up

After surgical treatment, patients receive comprehensive postoperative care, including:

• Pain Management: Medications to control pain and discomfort.

• Activity Restrictions: Guidelines for gradually resuming normal activities.

• Follow-Up Visits: Regular appointments to monitor healing and ensure the success of the procedure.

• Physical Therapy: Exercises to maintain chest wall flexibility and strength

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