Pectus Carinatum
Orthotics‘Pigeon Chest’ affects 1 in 1,000 people. 4 out of 5 are adolescent males.
Pectus Carinatum is often described as ‘pigeon chest’, and usually occurs around the age of 11 years. It is a chest wall deformity caused by overgrowth of the cartilage on either side of the sternum, causing the wall of the chest to protrude or stick out. This can be present from birth but usually develops during the rapid growth of adolescence.
Pectus carinatum has a prevalence of 0.6%, and research suggests it affects males more often than females. It becomes radically more noticeable during puberty, the severity of which usually worsens during growth spurts in late childhood/adolescence.
Pectus Excavatum Treatment at the London Prosthetics Centre
Provided in collaboration with Steeper Clinic, our specialist orthotists use non-surgical treatment methods to improve physical outcomes and patient confidence in those experiencing Pectus Carinatum. More information on assessments, support and costs can be found on the Steeper Clinic website.
Initial referrals to the London Prosthetics Centre can be made by patients, families, physicians, therapists, insurance providers, case managers, government bodies and others.
Signs and symptoms of Pectus Carinatum
Pectus carinatum, or pigeon chest, can vary, presenting itself as flexible or stiff, symmetrical or asymmetrical. Signs and symptoms can include:
- Protruding Breastbone
- Chest Pain/Tenderness
- Poor Posture
- Psychological concerns such as body dysmorphia and reduced self-esteem
The condition is generally not dangerous or life-threatening, with the most common symptoms being psychological, but this can impact quality of life at this important age.
Pectus Carinatum Treatment Options
Every patient is different, as some cases are easier to correct than others. Pectus Carinatum has traditionally been treated by surgery; however, this is no longer offered routinely in the NHS.
As an alternative, orthotic compression treatment has been used globally and has been shown to effectively return the shape of the chest to a normal appearance.
In collaboration with Steeper Clinic, we can offer treatment using a chest compressor brace. We choose the most appropriate chest compressor brace, either using the Steeper Chest Compressor orthosis or one of the PectusLab G-Pad or Smartfit orthoses.
The PectusLabs Gpad Chest Brace has achieved incredible results such as these in just 1.5 months, and in 8 months below.
We take 3D scans to monitor the correction achieved and support you and your child in their treatment journey to ensure that they get the best possible results.
Early orthotic treatment could prevent the need for any surgical intervention at all.