Pectus Excavatum

Overview

Pectus excavatum is a birth defect that causes the chest to look sunken. The defect is caused by abnormal development before birth of the tissue that joins the ribs and the breastbone (sternum). Pectus excavatum usually worsens with age. Severe cases of the condition can impair heart and lung function. Many people with pectus excavatum have self-image issues about the way they look.

Why choose Mayo Clinic

• Expertise and experience. Pediatric and chest (thoracic) surgeons at Mayo Clinic are skilled at performing complex pectus excavatum repair surgeries in both children and adults. Mayo surgeons have performed hundreds of these procedures.
• Teamwork. Pediatric and adult specialists in cardiology, pulmonary medicine, thoracic surgery and rehabilitation medicine work together to develop the best solution to your problem.
• Latest techniques. Surgeons use the latest imaging technology and minimally invasive surgical techniques to treat people who have pectus excavatum.
• Efficient care. Diagnosing your problem, recommending treatment and starting treatment, if you desire, can all be done in a few days at Mayo.

Read more about pectus excavatum.