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A pectus carinatum, often called "pigeon breast," is a protrusion of both the sternum (breast bone) and the cartilage portion of the ribs. (Figure 1)
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- The exact cause of pectus carinatum is unknown. It does run in families, so there is some inherited tendency for the condition.
- It occurs more frequently in boys than girls.
- It is not noted in almost one-half of the affected children until after their 11th birthday.
- A mild deformity noted at birth or in early childhood often worsens as the child grows, particularly at puberty.
- An association with scoliosis is seen in 15 percent of children with pectus carinatum.
- There have been no associations with heart or respiratory problems in children with pectus carinatum.
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- Most protrusions can be treated successfully by bracing. As a result, surgery is not needed.
- If the protrusion is severe enough to warrant correction, you will see a specialist in the brace shop who will construct your brace.
- A brace is made specifically based on your measurements and the shape of your protrusion. This may need to be adjusted periodically as you grow. (Figures 2 and 3)
- You will need to wear the brace when you are at home and when sleeping at night.
- The brace applies pressure to the protruding breast bone and cartilages. This gradually remolds or remodels your chest wall without requiring surgery.
- The process of correction will often take a year or so to be complete. How quickly this occurs is directly related to how long and how consistently the brace is worn.
- The most important factor in the successful treatment of pectus carinatum is your desire for getting rid of the protrusion and improving the appearance of your chest.
- You will need to check with your individual insurance company to clarify the coverage/cost of the brace.
- At this time, insurance companies rarely cover the cost of surgery.
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Call if you/your child have any questions or concerns about the fitting of the brace or any other concerns related to the chest wall deformity.
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Monday - Friday, 8:30am - 5:00pm
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Nurses' line (617) 355-7704
Nurse Practitioners' line (617) 355-7716
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Evening, Nights, Weekends, and Holidays
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Page Operator (617) 355-6369
Ask for the surgeon on-call.
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Pectus Carinatum
