Pectus Excavatum vs. Pectus Carinatum

There are two conditions that affect the appearance of the rib cage: Pectus Excavatum (PE) and Petcus Carinatum (PC). Both are musculoskeletal abnormalities that can be physically and emotionally debilitating for sufferers. Pectus Excavatum is a congenital deformity of the chest wall, causing several ribs and the breastbone to grow inward. This condition likely runs in families, and primarily affects young males. It is noticeable after birth and becomes worse during adolescence as the sternum continues to sink into the chest cavity. In extreme cases, pectus excavatum symptoms include a chest cavity so pronounced that it appears the center of the chest has been scooped out, creating a deep indentation. Also known as “funnel chest”, PE is a chronic condition. Pectus Excavatum treatment, such as physical therapy, may be helpful, but the condition is incurable. Physical therapy benefits include exercises that will improve posture, as well as increase the degree to which the chest can expand. In extreme cases, surgery may offer some degree of physical deformity correction.

Pectus Carinatum is also genetically linked. However, Pectus Carinatum, while rare, is also a deformity of the chest wall that causes the breastbone to push away from the chest, instead of being flush. Throughout childhood, as the chest wall develops, it is normal for the cartilage connecting the ribs to the sternum to grow symmetrically. In Pectus Carinatum cases, however, cartilage growth is abnormal and unequal along the areas where the ribs connect to the STERNUM, creating a bowed outward appearance on the chest wall. Pectus Carinatum is diagnosed with X-rays, computed tomography (CT) scans, or magnetic resonance images (MRIs). Surgical intervention is seldom required, and orthotic braces can relieve, and often resolve the condition over time. These braces will be worn under clothing for an average of fifteen hours daily until correction is achieved.  Once the chest correction is acceptable the child usually wears the brace for an average of eight hours per day to maintain correction during growth spurts. 

It is important to realize that Pectus Excavatum and Pectus Carinatum conditions are not merely cosmetic physical deformities. If untreated, both may additionally have adverse health effects. Carbon Based, LLC has developed an orthotic device, the P4CO line of orthotic braces, that can improve, and likely resolve many Pectus Carinatum cases. Constructed chiefly from carbon fibers, these braces are easy to adjust (by the wearer) and offer both day and night comfort and correction while being worn undetectably under clothing. 

To learn more, contact us at 888.760.7223.