Children born with a chest wall deformity need specialized care so they can get back to being kids as quickly as possible.
At Children’s Nebraska, our expert pediatric surgeons are specially trained in treating common chest wall deformities like pectus excavatum and pectus carinatum. Pectus excavatum is a congenital condition that develops when the breastbone (sternum) doesn’t form properly — instead, appearing sunken and causing a depression in the middle of the chest. Pectus carinatum is a congenital condition that causes the breastbone and ribs to protrude outward.
Although the exact causes of pectus excavatum and pectus carinatum are unknown, research has found they may have a genetic link or may be due to an imbalance in the growth of the sternum and ribs. In severe cases, symptoms may include chest pains and shortness of breath.
Contact Surgery
Call 402-955-7400 or contact us through Children’s Connect
Our Surgeons
What Sets Children’s Apart?
Our team has extensive experience with surgical corrections to repair moderate to severe cases of pectus excavatum and pectus carinatum, including bracing and the Nuss and Ravitch procedures. Each surgery is performed by a multidisciplinary team of pediatric experts, utilizing the latest specialized pain management techniques like virtual reality therapy, cryoablation and using a combination of pain medication drug classes to control pain effectively. These techniques significantly or completely reduce the need for opioids and other medications during and after surgery.
Learn more about pain management.
Treatment Options
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Bracing
Bracing is an effective technique in correcting pectus carinatum while children’s ribs are still flexible. Custom-made braces apply pressure to the ribs, gradually correcting the protrusion. These lightweight braces are designed to be discreet, allowing children to wear them under clothing. On average, braces are worn for 16 hours a day over two years. -
Vacuum Bell
The vacuum bell is a device that slowly raises the chest and can be worn under clothes. This is especially effective with children under 10 years old with mild forms of pectus excavatum. Surgery can still be offered if non-operative therapy is not effective. -
The Nuss Procedure
The Nuss procedure is a minimally invasive type of pectus excavatum surgery that involves implanting one or more stainless steel bars under the sternum in the chest. Over time, the bar corrects the sunken chest wall by lifting the breastbone. The bar is typically in place for two to three years. -
The Ravitch Procedure
The Ravitch procedure is performed under general anesthesia and is used to correct both pectus excavatum and pectus carinatum. This surgery involves removing the abnormal cartilage that causes the chest deformity, allowing the chest wall to be reshaped to a more normal contour.
Carson’s Story: Improved Health, Confidence After Pectus Surgery
In need of surgical repair for a severe chest wall deformity called pectus excavatum, 16-year-old Carson and his family connected with Children’s Nebraska’s Pediatric Surgery team, the largest and most experienced in the region, for a life-changing outcome.
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What to Do Next
For Patients
Learn what you need to know to prepare for surgery.