Search

Abstract Background Chest wall deformities, though relatively uncommon in childhood and adolescence, significantly affect aesthetic perception and can impact cardiac and respiratory function. This study aims to compare individuals with pectus deformities to a healthy control group, shedding light on the condition’s etiology and prognosis. Method Conducted as a case-control study between 2020 and 2022, the research included a case group of 71 patients with pectus excavatum or pectus carinatum who were followed up at the Pediatric Cardiology outpatient clinic. The control group consisted of 80 children without chronic diseases. Researchers retrospectively reviewed patient files, recording demographic data, echocardiography findings, and serum levels of calcium, phosphate, vitamin D, and alkaline phosphatase. Results Patients with chest wall deformities exhibited significantly lower serum levels of vitamin D, calcium, and phosphorus compared to those without deformities. Males constituted 77% of the case group, with 15.5% exhibiting abnormal echocardiogram results, with mitral valve anomalies being most prevalent. Conclusion While pectus deformities may lead to cardiac or respiratory issues, patient concerns often center around aesthetics. Unlike typical studies focused on surgical techniques and postoperative patients, our study focused on all diagnosed patients. Findings emphasize the importance of monitoring calcium, phosphorus, and vitamin D levels in pectus patients to manage surgical risks and facilitate recovery.

Background: Chest wall deformities, though relatively uncommon in childhood and adolescence, significantly affect aesthetic perception and can impact cardiac and respiratory function. This study aims to compare individuals with pectus deformities to a healthy control group, shedding light on the condition’s etiology and prognosis. Method: Conducted as a case-control study between 2020 and 2022, the research included a case group of 71 patients with pectus excavatum or pectus carinatum who were followed up at the Pediatric Cardiology outpatient clinic. The control group consisted of 80 children without chronic diseases. Researchers retrospectively reviewed patient files, recording demographic data, echocardiography findings, and serum levels of calcium, phosphate, vitamin D, and alkaline phosphatase. Results: Patients with chest wall deformities exhibited significantly lower serum levels of vitamin D, calcium, and phosphorus compared to those without deformities. Males constituted 77% of the case group, with 15.5% exhibiting abnormal echocardiogram results, with mitral valve anomalies being most prevalent. Conclusion: While pectus deformities may lead to cardiac or respiratory issues, patient concerns often center around aesthetics. Unlike typical studies focused on surgical techniques and postoperative patients, our study focused on all diagnosed patients. Findings emphasize the importance of monitoring calcium, phosphorus, and vitamin D levels in pectus patients to manage surgical risks and facilitate recovery. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purposes: This study aimed to retrospectively assess the response to a newly developed compression brace for improving the deformity of the secondary pectus carinatum in infants and toddlers undergoing cardiac surgery with midline sternotomy. Factors affecting the response to the brace were identified. Methods: Fifty-one children were enrolled. Severity was expressed as the protrusion angle of the sternum obtained from chest X-ray. The patients were divided into two groups by positive or negative binary residuals of the relationship between the angle at the beginning and its percentage change after wearing the brace. Logistic regression analysis was used to identify the influencing factors. Results: Thirty patients (58.8%) showed zero and positive residuals to the relationship (good responders, Group G), whereas 21 patients showed negative residuals (poor responders, Group P). Male sex, severe cardiac anomaly, complex surgical procedure, multiple sternotomy, total duration, and self-discontinuation were associated with poor response to the brace by univariate analysis. The first three factors remained with high odds ratio for poor response by multivariate analysis. No adverse events occurred with the brace. Conclusion: Our newly developed compression brace contributed, at least in part, to improve the deformity of the secondary pectus carinatum. Further studies are required to clarify the therapeutic efficacy of anterior chest compression for secondary pectus carinatum. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

ABSTRACT Background and Aims Pectus carinatum (PC) is the second most common deformity of the anterior chest wall, resulting in detrimental effects on body image and quality of life. This study evaluated the safety, effectiveness, and factors associated with the treatment of PC using a sandwiched bar and screw fixation system, first performed in Vietnam at the University Medical Center Ho Chi Minh City in 2016. Methods This retrospective cohort study was conducted from March 2016 to February 2023 in patients with PC and PC‐mixed pectus excavatum (PE) deformities. All patients underwent corrective surgery using the sandwiched bar and screw fixation system. Data were collected on demographic characteristics, operative time, length of hospital stay, Haller Index (HI), and postoperative complications. The effectiveness of the procedure was evaluated based on changes in the HI. Statistical analyses were performed using paired t‐tests to compare preoperative and postoperative HI values, and multivariate linear regression was used to identify factors associated with postoperative outcomes. Results Of the 39 consecutive patients, 12 (30.8%) had symmetric PC, 10 (25.6%) asymmetric PC, and 17 (43.6%) had PC with an excavatum complex. The mean operative time was 68.1 ± 35.8 min, and the length of stay was 5.3 ± 1.1 days. The preoperative and postoperative Haller index (HI) values were 1.96 ± 0.13 and 2.49 ± 0.14, respectively (p

ABSTRACT Objective: Evaluation of epidemiological data on Idiopathic Scoliosis in patients with different pectus subtypes. Methods: A medical record analysis of 418 patients with pectus, associated with idiopathic scoliosis above 10°, with research on: subtypes of pectus (Lateral Pectus Carinatum, Inferior Pectus Carinatum, Superior Pectus Carinatum, Broad Pectus Excavatum, and Localized Pectus Excavatum), and characteristics of the scoliotic curve (Cobb angle, laterality, and location). Results: The mean age was 14.6 years (22° mean Cobb, 52% females and 48% males). The most frequent kind of pectus was Inferior Pectus Carinatum (28%). The left-convex thoracolumbar type was the most frequent. Scoliosis was more severe in thoracic location and females. The main type was LPC (p < 0.05) in those with severe scoliosis. BPE was more present in men (68%), and LPC and SPC in women (p < 0.05). No significant differences were found between the pectus type and the side or location of the scoliosis curve. Conclusion: Depending on the subtype of pectus, the scoliotic curve presents distinct epidemiology and characteristics. Level of Evidence IV, Case Series – study prognostic.

Abstract Background Pectus carinatum (PC) mainly present at the growth spurt time of the early teenage years or the puberty. Poor outer appearance is a major reason for seeking help for surgeons to increase self-confidence and self-esteem. At present, minimally invasive repair (MIR) is one of effective ways to correct the chest wall deformity. Therefore, there is great practical significance to conduct clinical research on MIR about the adolescent PC. Methods We applied Abramson procedure in PC group or we applied Abramson procedure and Nuss procedure in PC/PE group. We retrospectively reviewed the results of 41 cases who underwent the surgical correction at our department from January 2020 to April 2023. Results All the procedures were successfully done without severe complications. The median operation Time was 80 min in PC group while was 130 min in PC/PE group. The median LOS were 4 days in PC group while 5 days in PC/PE group. The median compression depth was 32 mm in PC group while 12 mm in PC/PE group. Postoperatively, there are some complications. All Pneumothorax patients being treated conservatively were found in 9 patients in two groups. One patient suffered overcorrection after operation. There were 3 patients suffered steel wires breakage in two groups. One patient reoperation postoperatively for the dislocation of the bar secondary to steel wires breakage. Conclusions The Abramson procedure or Abramson procedure and Nuss procedure have good short-term results in repair PC and PC/PE. Select one or two procedures should be done individually based on whether the lower plane over depressed after Abramson procedure.

Abstract We aimed to investigate the feasibility of the sandwich technique to treat pectus carinatum combined with Harrison sulcus. We retrospectively analysed the clinical data of 38 paediatric patients with pectus carinatum combined with Harrison sulcus treated from June 2015 to October 2022. All the patients underwent surgery using the sandwich technique. The surgical conditions and postoperative outcomes of the patients and the satisfaction score of family members were analysed. Overall, the patients had a mean duration of surgery of 179.05 ± 36.01 min, intraoperative blood loss of 10.03 ± 2.77 mL, postoperative hospital stay of 6.89 ± 0.73 days, and postoperative satisfaction score of 89.4 ± 4.6. The incidence of surgical complications was 7.89%. The internal fixation stents were removed in 22 patients, and there was no recurrence during a follow-up 371.4 ± 6.3 days post-stent removal. These results were satisfactory. The use of the sandwich technique to treat this condition does not reduce the volume of the thorax after the procedure and results in an aesthetically pleasing incision, less complications, and fast postoperative recovery. Thus, it is a safe and effective method that is worthy of being promoted for clinical application.

Abstract Background Pectus carinatum may be a major issue for adolescent patients, as chest-wall malformations can have a negative impact on body image and induce self-esteem disorders. Bracing has become the first line treatment for adolescent patients whose anterior chest wall is still flexible. The main obstacle is the tolerability of the bracing device along with the patient’s compliance to the device. The aim of this study was to examine the quality of life of adolescent patients treated with bracing to correct pectus carinatum in our institution. From November 2021 to July 2023, 28 patients with pectus carinatum were treated with bracing therapy in our chest wall deformities unit. We used a bivalve brace, manufactured with computer-aided design. All patients were asked to answer a multiple-choice questionnaire designed to assess how bracing therapy impacts their daily life, treatment compliance, and overall satisfaction. Patients who wore the brace for at least 3 months, and at least 5 days per week and 10 h per day, are defined as compliant with the bracing protocol. Results The mean age of the patients was 14 ± 1.36 years. Patients wore the brace for an average of 10.1 ± 6.9 months in the compliance group (n = 18), and 2.2 ± 2.5 months in the non-compliance group (n = 10). Our results show that compliant patients are fairly satisfied of the comfort of the brace, with a limited impact of the device on their daily activities and social life. However, non-compliant patients report the following dissatisfactions regarding the brace: higher pain scores, difficulty in breathing, and issues sleeping with the brace. The compliant patients noted a significant improvement in the appearance of their chest, and were satisfied with the appearance of their chest. The non-compliant patients did not notice any changes. Conclusions Compliant patients treated with a bi-valve brace for pectus carinatum seem to have a good quality of life with a limited impact on their daily life and social activities. The bi-valve brace also seems to be an effective therapy in compliant patients.

Background: Pectus carinatum (PC) mainly present at the growth spurt time of the early teenage years or the puberty. Poor outer appearance is a major reason for seeking help for surgeons to increase self-confidence and self-esteem. At present, minimally invasive repair (MIR) is one of effective ways to correct the chest wall deformity. Therefore, there is great practical significance to conduct clinical research on MIR about the adolescent PC. Methods: We applied Abramson procedure in PC group or we applied Abramson procedure and Nuss procedure in PC/PE group. We retrospectively reviewed the results of 41 cases who underwent the surgical correction at our department from January 2020 to April 2023. Results: All the procedures were successfully done without severe complications. The median operation Time was 80 min in PC group while was 130 min in PC/PE group. The median LOS were 4 days in PC group while 5 days in PC/PE group. The median compression depth was 32 mm in PC group while 12 mm in PC/PE group. Postoperatively, there are some complications. All Pneumothorax patients being treated conservatively were found in 9 patients in two groups. One patient suffered overcorrection after operation. There were 3 patients suffered steel wires breakage in two groups. One patient reoperation postoperatively for the dislocation of the bar secondary to steel wires breakage. Conclusions: The Abramson procedure or Abramson procedure and Nuss procedure have good short-term results in repair PC and PC/PE. Select one or two procedures should be done individually based on whether the lower plane over depressed after Abramson procedure. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This article reviews pectus excavatum, carinatum, and arcuatum. Topics covered include etiology, epidemiology, associated syndromes, physiologic impact, workup, indications for treatment, surgical and nonsurgical therapy, results, complications, and emerging therapies. Pectus excavatum is an inward deformation of the sternum and/or anterior chest wall. Pectus carinatum is ether an outward protrusion or tilt of the sternum with potential psychological impact, but no demonstrated physiologic impact. Nonoperative compression bracing is successful in carinatum patients with chest wall flexibility who are compliant with a bracing program. Pectus arcuatum is an abnormally short, fully fused sternum with a high anterior protrusion. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Pectus carinatum may be a major issue for adolescent patients, as chest-wall malformations can have a negative impact on body image and induce self-esteem disorders. Bracing has become the first line treatment for adolescent patients whose anterior chest wall is still flexible. The main obstacle is the tolerability of the bracing device along with the patient's compliance to the device. The aim of this study was to examine the quality of life of adolescent patients treated with bracing to correct pectus carinatum in our institution. From November 2021 to July 2023, 28 patients with pectus carinatum were treated with bracing therapy in our chest wall deformities unit. We used a bivalve brace, manufactured with computer-aided design. All patients were asked to answer a multiple-choice questionnaire designed to assess how bracing therapy impacts their daily life, treatment compliance, and overall satisfaction. Patients who wore the brace for at least 3 months, and at least 5 days per week and 10 h per day, are defined as compliant with the bracing protocol. Results: The mean age of the patients was 14 ± 1.36 years. Patients wore the brace for an average of 10.1 ± 6.9 months in the compliance group (n = 18), and 2.2 ± 2.5 months in the non-compliance group (n = 10). Our results show that compliant patients are fairly satisfied of the comfort of the brace, with a limited impact of the device on their daily activities and social life. However, non-compliant patients report the following dissatisfactions regarding the brace: higher pain scores, difficulty in breathing, and issues sleeping with the brace. The compliant patients noted a significant improvement in the appearance of their chest, and were satisfied with the appearance of their chest. The non-compliant patients did not notice any changes. Conclusions: Compliant patients treated with a bi-valve brace for pectus carinatum seem to have a good quality of life with a limited impact on their daily life and social activities. The bi-valve brace also seems to be an effective therapy in compliant patients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: The study aimed to compare spinal posture, mobility, and position sense in adolescents with pectus excavatum (PE), pectus carinatum (PC), and healthy control (HC). Methods: 22 with PE, 22 with PC, and 21 HC were included in the study. The spinal posture (thoracic kyphosis, lumbar lordosis, pelvic tilt, thoracic, lumbar, pelvic lateral tilt angles) and mobility (thoracic, lumbar, hip/sacral, and overall, in the sagittal and frontal plane) with the spinal mouse, and spinal position sense (repositing errors) with the inclinometer were assessed. Results: The thoracic kyphosis angle of PE and PC was higher than in HC (p < 0.001; p = 0.001). Hip/sacral mobility in the sagittal plane was lower in the PE and PC than control, respectively (p < 0.001; p < 0.001). Overall sagittal spinal mobility (p:0.007) and hip/sacral mobility in the frontal plane (p:0.002) were lower in the PC than in HC. Overall frontal spinal mobility was lower in the PE and PC than in HC (p:0.002; p:0.014). The PE and PC repositing errors were higher (p < 0.001; p:0.014). Conclusion: The study found that adolescents with PE and PC had decreased spinal mobility, spinal alignment disorders, and a decline in spinal position sense. It is important not to overlook the spine during physical examinations of adolescents with chest wall deformities. In clinical practice, we suggest that adolescents with chest deformities should undergo a spine evaluation and be referred for physical therapy to manage spinal disorders. Highlights: Adolescents with pectus excavatum and carinatum had spinal alignment disorders such as increased thoracic kyphosis and lumbar lateral tilt. The spinal mobility was reduced in adolescents with pectus excavatum and carinatum. Adolescents with pectus excavatum and carinatum had weaker spinal position sense than healthy. •Adolescents with pectus excavatum and carinatum should undergo a spine evaluation and be referred for physical therapy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Pectus defects are a group of congenital conditions found in approximately 1 in 250 people, where the sternum is depressed back towards the spine (excavatum), protrudes forwards (carinatum) or more rarely is a mixture of both (arcuatum or mixed defects). For the majority of patients, it is well tolerated, but some patients are affected psychologically, physiologically or both. The deformity becomes apparent at a young age due to the growth of the ribs and the cartilage that links them to the sternum. The majority of defects are mild and are well tolerated, i.e. they do not affect activity and do not cause psychological harm. However, some young people develop lower self-esteem and depression, causing them to withdraw from activities (such as swimming, dancing) and from interactions that might 'expose' them (such as sleepovers, dating, going to the beach and wearing fashionable clothes). This psychological harm occurs at a crucial time during their physical and social development. A small number of patients have more extreme depression of their sternum that impedes their physiological reserve, which can occur when engaging in strenuous exercise (such as running) but can also limit moderate activity such as walking and climbing stairs. The effects can be so extreme that symptoms occur at rest or cause life-threatening compression of the major blood vessels and organs. The group of patients with physiological impairment usually also suffer from low self-esteem and depression. This paper summarizes the current evidence for the different treatment strategies for this condition, including supportive care, psychological support and non-surgical techniques including bracing and vacuum bell therapy. We also consider surgical techniques including the Ravitch procedure, the Nuss procedure (minimally invasive repair of pectus excavatum), pectus implants and other rare procedures such as Pectus Up. For the majority of patients, supportive care is sufficient, but for a minority, a combination of the other techniques may be considered. This paper also outlines best practice guidance for the delivery of such therapies, including standardized assessment, consent to treatment, audit, quality assurance and long-term support. All the interventions have risks and benefits that the patient, parents and clinicians need to carefully consider and discuss when deciding on the most appropriate course. We hope this evidence review of 'Best Practice for Pectus' will make a significant contribution to those considerations and help all involved, from patients to national policy makers, to deliver the best possible care. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We aimed to investigate the feasibility of the sandwich technique to treat pectus carinatum combined with Harrison sulcus. We retrospectively analysed the clinical data of 38 paediatric patients with pectus carinatum combined with Harrison sulcus treated from June 2015 to October 2022. All the patients underwent surgery using the sandwich technique. The surgical conditions and postoperative outcomes of the patients and the satisfaction score of family members were analysed. Overall, the patients had a mean duration of surgery of 179.05 ± 36.01 min, intraoperative blood loss of 10.03 ± 2.77 mL, postoperative hospital stay of 6.89 ± 0.73 days, and postoperative satisfaction score of 89.4 ± 4.6. The incidence of surgical complications was 7.89%. The internal fixation stents were removed in 22 patients, and there was no recurrence during a follow-up 371.4 ± 6.3 days post-stent removal. These results were satisfactory. The use of the sandwich technique to treat this condition does not reduce the volume of the thorax after the procedure and results in an aesthetically pleasing incision, less complications, and fast postoperative recovery. Thus, it is a safe and effective method that is worthy of being promoted for clinical application. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Pectus arcuatum, also known as horns of steer anomaly or Currarino–Silverman Syndrome, is a distinct chest wall anomaly characterized by severe manubriosternal angulation, a shortened sternum, and mild pectus excavatum. The anomaly is typically repaired using open techniques, employing orthopedic fixation devices. Here, we report the results of a minimally invasive hybrid procedure to repair pectus arcuatum. The procedure combines a standard Nuss procedure to correct the depressed sternum with a short upper chest (in boys) or inter-mammary (in girls) incision for bilateral subperichondrial resection of the upper costal cartilages, osteotomy, and correction of the manubrial angulation. The medical records of all patients who underwent the procedure over the last 10 years were reviewed. Five patients, 3 boys and 2 girls, aged 14 to 17 years, underwent the procedure. Three patients had their pectus bars removed 3–4 years after repair. Follow-up after correction ranged from 6 months to 7 years. Good correction resulted in all patients achieving recovery without complications and recurrence. To date, all patients have been satisfied with their results. The minimally invasive hybrid procedure adequately corrects pectus arcuatum with minimal scarring and high satisfaction. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Dynamic compression system (DCS) is often effective at treating pectus carinatum (PC). However, some patients will fail therapy. This study reports outcomes from a nurse-practitioner led bracing program, and evaluates what factors are predictive of successful therapy. We performed a retrospective cohort study involving all patients treated with DCS bracing at our institution between February 2018 and February 2022. Patients with at least three visits were included. The primary outcome was achieving neutral chest. Factors considered potentially predictive included patient age, sex, initial pressure of correction (PIC), and the change in pressure of correction between the first two visits (deltaPC1). A Cox proportional hazards model was used for analysis, and Kaplan–Meier analyses estimated the median time to correction. 283 patients were evaluated. The median age was 14 (IQR 12–15), the majority were male (90.1 %) and white (92.6 %). The median PIC and deltaPC1was 4.13 PSI (IQR 3.17–5.3), and 1.34 PSI (IQR 0.54–2.25), respectively. 117 patients achieved correction. The median estimated time to correction was 7.5 months (95 % CI 5.9–10.1). In the final Cox model, greater deltaPC1 was associated with increased risk of correction (HR: 2.46; 95 % CI 2.03–2.98), and increased PIC was associated with decreased risk of correction up to one year of therapy (0–3 months HR 0.62, 95 % CI 0.50–0.78; 3–12 months HR 0.62; 95 % CI 0.45–0.85). DCS bracing administered by advanced care providers in collaboration with surgeons can effectively treat PC. The deltaPC1 and PIC are the factors most predictive of successful therapy. Level III. • What is currently known about this topic: Pectus carinatum can be effectively treated with bracing, although some patients will fail therapy. • What new information is contained in this article: Bracing programs for pectus carinatum can be effectively run by nurse-practitioners. The primary predictors for successful therapy are a large drop in the pressure of correction between the first visits, and the initial pressure of correction. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: Chest wall deformities are a series of abnormalities that extend from the sternum to the vertebral column and often cause aesthetic and psychological problems. Most chest wall deformities are caused by cartilaginous malformations such as pectus excavatum and pectus carinatum. The aim of this study was to provide a detailed description of chest wall abnormalities in young male athletes with no existing complaints. Methods: A comprehensive health assessment was performed on 1600 young men at the Erzincan Police Vocational Training Centre in March 2023. The evaluation included chest radiographs, pulmonary function tests, electrocardiography, transthoracic echocardiography, haemogram, biochemical test findings and comorbidities. Haller index scale was used to grade the severity of pectus deformity in individuals with pectus excavatum. Results: Pectus excavatum deformity was detected in 16 individuals (1%). Pectus carinatum was detected in only one individual (0.06%). Only one of the patients with chest wall deformity had an abnormal pulmonary function test, especially in the form of a minor obstructive pattern. In addition, 11 individuals in this group had associated electrocardiographic abnormalities. These abnormalities did not cause significant clinical findings. Conclusion: Our study showed that the prevalence of chest wall deformities in physically active young men is comparable to the prevalence of chest wall deformities reported for the general population in the available literature. Furthermore, this study demonstrated a higher prevalence of electrocardiographic abnormalities in subjects with chest wall deformities. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Although effective, compressive orthotic bracing (COB) in children with pectus carinatum is still not standardized. This study has aimed to analyze current practices amongst members of the Chest Wall International Group (CWIG). Methods: A web-based questionnaire was mailed to all CWIG members at 208 departments. It included 30 questions regarding diagnostic work-up, age for COB indication, type of COB used, daily wearing time, treatment duration, complications, and recurrence rate. Results: Members from 44 departments have responded (institutional response rate 21.2%). A total of 93% consider COB as the first-line treatment for PC. A conventional COB (CC) is used in 59%, and the dynamic compression system (FMF) in 41%. The overall compliance rate is >80%. A total of 67% of responders consider COB to be indicated in patients <10 years. The actual wearing time is significantly shorter than the physician-recommended time (p < 0.01). FMF patients experience a significantly faster response than CC patients (p < 0.01). No recurrence of PC has been noted in 34%; recurrence rates of 10–30% have been noted in 61%. Conclusions: COB is the first-line treatment for PC with a high compliance rate. During puberty, the recurrence rate is high. Treatment standardization and follow-up until the end of puberty are recommended to enhance COB effectiveness. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

IntroductionInternational research suggests that poor patient compliance is the main cause of tutor failures in the context of potential novel orthopedic bivalve braces for conservative treatment of pectus carinatum. Our entire experimental study is based on the hypothesis that a rigid bivalve brace that patients can accept could solve the main problem associated with the conservative approach—poor compliance. The hypothesis was to reduce the thickness and weight of the classic bivalve brace to ensure concealment and make it sustainable enough to be worn several hours a day without compromising its therapeutic efficacy.Materials and methodThe research was conducted from January 2020 to December 2022 to ensure follow-up of all participants for at least 6 months. In 36 months, 140 patients with pectus carinatum were assessed and conservatively treated with the studied guardian to analyze the therapeutic efficacy of the bivalve brace and patient compliance. From the initial visit, the parents and patient were informed that this is a 2-year therapeutic course during which the bivalve brace should be worn at least 23 h a day (with 1 h of abstinence per day for routine personal hygiene practices). Compliance is the key to therapy success, and the duration of treatment depends on patient adherence.ResultsThe exceptional effectiveness of the experimental brace was confirmed by both the questionnaire from the patients (with an average satisfaction rate of 8.9/10) and an assessment of the therapy's results by a properly selected medical committee (with a VAS scale satisfaction of 7.2/10 for symmetric forms and 7.1/10 for asymmetric ones).ConclusionIn conclusion, the analyzed data confirmed the research hypotheses. First, none of the 140 patients had cardiovascular diseases directly related to their condition, confirming that pectus carinatum is a pathology of a purely aesthetic nature. Second, a cheap, lightweight, and easily obscured brace significantly improved patient compliance. Along with this, the social relevance of the aesthetic aspect today may be an important factor in motivating the study cohort to adhere to therapy. In the past, esthetics and appearance were less relevant at the social level, which may have contributed to the high abandonment and reduced compliance rates of the many studies in the literature.

Anterior chest wall deformities consist of abnormal development of the chest, with the most common congenital deformities being pectus excavatum (PE) and pectus carinatum (PC). Surgical series are common, but less research is present assessing the demographics of all who present for initial evaluation. The purpose of this study is to describe the patient characteristics of those who present for ambulatory surgical evaluation. Data were collected from initial patient visits to an established multispecialty chest wall deformities program at a large Children's Hospital from 2017 to 2021. Variables assessed included primary diagnosis, age, sex, race/ethnicity, and whether surgical correction was performed. A total of 1510 children were evaluated: 50.0% (n = 755) with PE, 43.3% (n = 653) with PC, 2.7% (n = 41) with mixed chest wall deformities, 0.7% (n = 10) with Poland syndrome, 1.1% (n = 17) with Currarino-Silverman syndrome, and 2.3% (n = 34) with other anterior chest wall deformities. Males and females presented at mean age of 12.8 (4.2) and 10.9 (5.5) years, respectively (P = 0.001). White children represented 61.1% of the overall population while Hispanic children represented 26.3%. White, non-Hispanic children represented 61.9% and 71.5% and Hispanic children represented 26.0% and 26.3% of the PE and PC populations, respectively. Most patients seen in an urban chest wall deformities clinic were White, non-Hispanic; however, the proportion of other groups such as Hispanic and Asian is greater in this cohort than previously described. Further research is ongoing to ascertain the extent to which disease predisposition versus access to care play roles in this population. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: Pectus carinatum is the second most common chest wall deformity causing psychological problems. There has been a growing interest in the conservative treatment of the disease in recent years. Here, we present results of the first 100 patients who were treated with compressive external bracing therapy. Patients and Methods: A total of one hundred patients who were treated with compressive external bracing between 2017-2023 were reviewed from database. Parameters recorded include demographics, type of the deformity, duration of the treatment time, complications, and patient satisfaction. Results: Among 100 patients 88 were male (88%) and 12 were female (12%) and the mean age was 13.3 years (3-19). 76 patients (76%) had a symmetric pectus carinatum and 24 patients (24%) had asymmetric. 23 (23%) patients had scoliosis, 9 (9%) had kyphosis, 1 (1%) had Poland Syndrome and 1 (1%) patient had Marfan Syndrome as accompanying anomalies. Quality of Life Questionnaire revealed 94.8 % satisfaction in patients who completed the treatment. Conclusion: Compressive external bracing is associated with satisfactory results in the treatment of pectus carinatum. This non¬surgical intervention enables us to treat more patients in younger ages with lesser comorbidity than surgical intervention. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: We aim to describe four new subtypes of PE in detail and represent modification of the Nuss procedure called crossed bar technique for their optimum correction with good results. Methods: 101 patients who underwent crossed bar technique between August 2005 and February 2022 were included into the study. Results: The mean age of the patient series was 21.1 (range 15–38 years) years. Mean Haller index was 3.87. Mean operation duration was 86.84 min. 2 bars were used in 74 (73.3%) of the patients whereas 3 bars were preferred in 27 (26.7%) of them. Mean hospital stay was 4.1 (2–8) days, and all the patients were seen routinely on postoperative follow-up at 1st, 6th, and 18th months. Quality of life questionnaires revealed satisfaction. Conclusions: Cross bar technique yields satisfactory results for these new subtypes and can be performed safely with good results in these selected group of patients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

BACKGROUND: Bronchiectasis is a disorder characterized by destruction of smooth muscle and elastic tissue due to inflammation which leads to permanent dilation of bronchi and bronchioles. It may develop in association with Cystic Fibrosis, a single severe episode or recurrent episodes of pneumonia and exposure to tuberculosis. The principal conditions associated with bronchiectasis are obstruction and infection. Infections primarily originate from issues with airway clearance, which cause bronchi and bronchioles to enlarge irreversibly. Vertical airways are notably affected, while distal bronchi and bronchioles are more severely affected. The degree of disease activity and chronicity may affect the histological findings. Childhood bronchiectasis can proceed to severe consequences including persistent bacterial bronchitis, in developing nations like India due to a lack of effective diagnosis and treatment as a result of poor health care infrastructure in the rural areas as well as limited awareness on the part of general public and health care professionals. THE CASE: A 3.5-year-old Indian boy presented with productive cough and cold for 8 days associated with low grade fever. Patient was admitted through Out Patient Department (OPD) due to respiratory distress and facial swelling. Clinical exam revealed presence of crepitation, wheeze and pectus carinatum. Patient has history of multiple hospital admissions due to pneumonia and respiratory distress. There is history of exposure to tuberculosis. His mother had been diagnosed with tuberculosis when the child was 3 months old. She received anti-tubercular drugs and is now cured. HRCT thorax reveals collapse of basal segment of right lung, trans-mediastinal space shift of left upper lobe and bi-lateral bronchiectatic changes which include unusually thickened enlarged airways exhibiting the characteristic tram-track appearance. Echocardiogram findings show thickened pericardium, mild pericardial collection and trace tricuspid valve regurgitation. The case is unique since it is quite rare for a young child to have such a severe form of bronchiectasis. CONCLUSION: Diagnosis can be done with the help of radiological and clinical examination. However, High Resolution Computed Tomography (HRCT) scan is the investigation of choice. Early management is a key factor in minimizing more serious complication like severe hemoptysis and cor pulmonale. Current treatment modalities include antibiotics, bronchodilators, anti-inflammatory drugs and chest physical therapy. Severe cases may require injectable antibiotics. Bronchiectasis was thought to be an orphan disease that seldom progressed to severe consequences, especially after the introduction of newer antimicrobials. There exist guidelines that advocate treatments for bronchiectasis, and reports of therapy have been shown to be linked with clinical success. However, such guidelines do not exist in India at present. This case is noteworthy as it portrays bronchiectasis in an Indian child that has proceeded to the severe complication of transmediastinal herniation, demonstrating that it is relatively common albeit under-diagnosed in developing countries. Though is an irreversible disease in adults, in children if detected early there is almost complete restoration of pulmonary function and adequate exercise tolerance. Early diagnosis with suitable pharmacological and non-pharmacological management is critical for a positive outcome and prevention of sequelae like persistent bacterial bronchitis.

Pectus arcuatum is often mistaken for a type of pectus carinatum. However, pectus arcuatum is a unique clinical form of pectus caused by premature obliteration of the sternal sutures (manubrial sternum, four sternebrae and xiphoïd process), whereas pectus carinatum is due to abnormal growth of the costal cartilage. In order to better describe pectus arcuatum, we analysed the files of patients with pectus arcuatum followed in our centers. Multicenter retrospective study of young patients' files diagnosed with pectus arcuatum. The clinical diagnosis of pectus arcuatum was made in 34 patients with a mean age at diagnosis of 10.3 years (4–23 years). A chest profile X-ray or a CT scan was performed in 16 patients (47%) and confirmed the diagnosis of PA by the presence of a sternal fusion. It was complete in 12 patients. A malformation was associated in 35% of cases (Noonan syndrome 33%, scoliosis 25% or cardiopathy 16%). 11 patients (32%) had a family history of skeletal malformation. Orthopedic treatment was initiated in 3 patients without any success. 11 patients underwent surgical correction, which was completed in 7 of them. The diagnosis of pectus arcuatum is based on clinical experience and if necessary, on a profile chest X-ray showing the fusion of the sternal pieces. It implies the search for any associated malformations (musculoskeletal, cardiac, syndromic). Bracing treatment is useless for pectus arcuatum. Corrective surgery, based on a sternotomy associated with a partial chondro-costal resection, can be performed at the end of growth. IV. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• What is currently known about this topic? • What new information is contained in this article? • Pectus carinatum is increasingly treated with dynamic compression therapy. Factors for success for are relatively unknown. • The pressure of initial correction and height of deformity are predictors for the total treatment time and the time to correction. Chest scores improved in the first months after start of treatment. Scores remained high. Pectus carinatum (PC) is a congenital chest wall deformity. In childhood, it is increasingly treated with dynamic compression therapy. Factors for success for dynamic brace therapy are relatively unknown. Between 2013 and 2020, 740 patients treated with the Dynamic Compression System (DCS), were studied. This included the effect of age, gender, pectus height, symmetry and pectus rigidity on treatment time and symptoms with linear multiple regression analyses. Carinatum height and high pressure of initial correction at the start of treatment were associated with a prolonged duration of treatment. For each cm increase in carinatum height, the total treatment duration increased with 1.9 months (p -value= 0.002, 95% CI: 0.70–3.13). An initial correction pressure of ≥7.6 pounds per square inch (psi), increased the treatment duration with 3.5 months (p -value 0.006, 95% CI: 1.04–6.01) compared to an initial correction pressure of ≤5.0 psi. A high initial pressure of correction of ≥7.6 psi increased the odds of having somatic symptoms with 1.19 (p -value= 0.012, 95% CI: 1.04–1.45) and psychosocial symptoms with 1.13 (p -value= 0.04, 95% CI: 1.01–1.27) compared to a low initial pressure of correction of ≤5.0 psi. An initial pressure of correction of 5.1–7.5 psi increased the odds of having somatic symptoms with 1.14 (p -value 0.046, 95% CI: 1.00–1.29) compared to an initial pressure of correction of ≤5.0 psi. Patients with asymmetric chests were more likely to abandon therapy High carinatum height and high initial pressure of correction are associated with prolonged bracing treatment and a higher failure rate. III [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Although effective, compressive orthotic bracing (COB) in children with pectus carinatum is still not standardized. This study has aimed to analyze current practices amongst members of the Chest Wall International Group (CWIG). Methods: A web-based questionnaire was mailed to all CWIG members at 208 departments. It included 30 questions regarding diagnostic work-up, age for COB indication, type of COB used, daily wearing time, treatment duration, complications, and recurrence rate. Results: Members from 44 departments have responded (institutional response rate 21.2%). A total of 93% consider COB as the first-line treatment for PC. A conventional COB (CC) is used in 59%, and the dynamic compression system (FMF) in 41%. The overall compliance rate is >80%. A total of 67% of responders consider COB to be indicated in patients p < 0.01). FMF patients experience a significantly faster response than CC patients (p < 0.01). No recurrence of PC has been noted in 34%; recurrence rates of 10–30% have been noted in 61%. Conclusions: COB is the first-line treatment for PC with a high compliance rate. During puberty, the recurrence rate is high. Treatment standardization and follow-up until the end of puberty are recommended to enhance COB effectiveness.

Abstract Background The Nuss bar is commonly used for minimally invasive correction of pectus excavatum and is usually removed within 2–3 years. Here, we report a case of 10-year bar placement after the Nuss procedure accompanied by unique complications of thoracic malformation that have not been described before. The asymmetric pectus carinatum caused by bar displacement and significant rib periosteal hyperplasia is described for the first time. Case presentation A 23-year-old man was admitted to our hospital due to the main complaint of obvious chest discomfort when lifting heavy weights. The bar removal was seriously delayed due to his loss to follow-up. Chest asymmetry and distant heart sounds were found during a physical examination. A chest CT scan demonstrated that the right end of the lower bar originally fixed outside the ribs had shifted into the thoracic cavity, and the left costal cartilage was obviously protruding. Additionally, the displaced bars were separated from the sternum and tightly attached to the pericardium, resulting in abnormalities of the anterior mediastinum. These secondary thoracic deformities made the patient extremely prone to massive hemorrhage or multiple rib fractures when sliding the bars out. However, serious consequences were avoided due to reasonable adjustments to the usual bar removal procedures. Conclusion This case demonstrates a specific type of bar displacement caused by prolonged placement of the bars and highlights the importance of rigorous follow-up of patients after the Nuss procedure.

Objective To explore the surgical approaches, outcomes and complications of mini-invasive inverted Nuss procedure for correcting pectus carinatum (PC) in children. Methods From July 2020 to December 2021, retrospective anlysis was performed for clinical data of mini-invasive inverted Nuss procedure for correcting PC.There were 14 boys and 1 girl with a median age of 19.6(141-180) month and a median weight of 44(36-55) kg.Hailer index had a median value of 1.94(1.76-2.24).Steel bar was pressed anteriorly onto sternum via a lateral thoracic incision and fixed with steel wires.Inverted Nuss procedure was performed alone (n=9) and with Nuss procedure (n=6). Results All procedures were successfully completed without intraoperative complications.The median operative duration was 100(70-225) min and the length of postopretive stay (5-7) day.The bar was implanted for 1.5 years.Follow-ups were conducted at Month 1/3/6/12.One case recurred due to sternal callapse at Month 1 post-operation.Another child was reoperated for break of steel wire during vigorous exercise at Month 3 post-operation. Conclusion Inverted Nuss procedure may correct PC with minimal injury and a quick recovery.Its middle/long-term outcomes should be evaluated by a larger sample size and longer follow-ups. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective To summarize our clinical experiences of mini-invasive surgery for pectus excavatum (PE) in children. Methods From January 2019 to February 2023, retrospective analysis was performed for clinical data of 141 PE children undergoing mini-invasive surgical repair with a modified Nuss procedure. Results All operations were successfully completed with a mean operative duration of (52.9±21.7) min and a mean intraoperative volume of blood loss (2.7±1.8) ml.The mean hospital stay was (7.4±2.1) days.And the usage length of correction bar ranged from 10 inches (25.4 cm) to 13 inches (33.0 cm).They maintained an excellent appearance, resumed normal activities and had no discomfort.The children and their families were satisfied with the correction outcomes.There were no serious postoperative complications.Among them, 85 cases had a removal of correction bar with a mean removal time of (18.3±7.3) month.Chest wall regained an excellent appearance without any recurrence after removal. Conclusion Mini-invasive modified Nuss procedure for PE offers the advantages of safety, aesthetics, minimal trauma, quick recovery and low recurrence rate in children.Selecting appropriate patients with a stronger surgical aspiration is vital for successful surgery. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]