Pectus Carinatum (PC) or so-called Pigeon Chest is one of a spectrum of anterior chest wall developmental anomalies involving an idiopathic overgrowth of the costal cartilages resulting in protrusion defect of the sternum.

INCIDENCE — Pectus carinatum is an uncommon deformity that occurs in approximately one per 1500 live births [1]. It is approximately four times more common in males than females. There is a strong familial incidence, with up to 25 percent of affected patients reporting chest wall abnormalities in family members [1,4-6].

Pectus carinatum is an infrequent but eminently correctable chest wall deformity. It is encountered much less frequently than pectus excavatum. [Shamberger, RC. Congenital chest wall deformities. In: Pediatric Surgery, 5th ed, O'Neill, J, Rowe, MI, Grosfeld, JL, et al (Eds), Mosby 1998. p.787.]

Deformity is usually present from early childhood, but is observed to be more prominent in adolescence, during the phase of linear growth.

There is a strong correlation between teenage growth and pectus deformities. The majority of patients are completely asymptomatic. Symptoms are frequently related to some other associated anomaly (e.g., Scoliosis, congenital heart disease or pulmonary involvement).

Among the deformities of the thoracic wall, pectus carinatum has not received the same attention as has pectus excavatum. Few pulmonologists, pediatricians, and thoracic surgeons are aware of the approaches to treating this condition. As a consequence, patients with pectus carinatum are not referred for treatment. This deformity, with an incidence of 1:1000 teenagers, is oligosymptomatic. However, for aesthetic and emotional reasons, it accounts for a large number of medical appointments. Such patients are introverted and do not engage in physical activities, since they are unwilling to expose their chest, which also discourages them from going to the beach or to swimming pools. [Coelho Mde S, Guimarães Pde S, Pectus carinatum. In: J Bras Pneumol. 2007 Aug;33(4):463-74.]

The classical management of Pectus Carinatum has been primarily surgical, involving some modification of the Ravitch procedure, a re-section of the deformed costal cartilages along with sternal osteotomy.

The Ravitch procedure involves a large incision—a rather invasive surgical procedure with relatively good results, yet long-term worsening of the cosmetic appearance and decreased chest wall compliance over time.

There are health risks associated with all invasive surgeries.

Compressive orthoses are designed to place external force on the point of the most prominent sternal protrusion of the deformity to provide continued pressure, stimulating bone and cartilages remodeling.

Patients report that the Braceworks pectus brace is easily worn under a shirt or hoodie. Wearers can adjust pressure to suit what they're doing.

Adaptable brace performance yields high patient adoption and compliance rates. Consistently good results are reported when used according to the Calgary Protocol. Contact us for details.

The Fit Kit includes everything required for accurate measurements and ordering a custom fitted Braceworks Pectus Brace. Fitting instructions for physicians and personal wear and care guidance are provided.

Call 403.240.9100 or email for additional grid paper and supplies. Additional fit kits are available for $300 (USD outside Canada), plus shipping.