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Pectus Excavatum (Sunken Chest)
A common chest-wall difference where the breastbone is sunken inward, giving a caved-in appearance. It is usually cosmetic but can sometimes affect the heart and lungs.
Causes & risk factors
- Abnormal growth of the rib cartilage
- Often present from birth and worsens in the teens
- Family tendency
- Linked to some connective tissue conditions
Common symptoms
- Sunken appearance of the chest
- Breathlessness on exertion
- Reduced exercise tolerance
- Chest discomfort
- Palpitations
Tests & diagnosis
- Physical examination
- CT scan of chest
- Echocardiogram
- Lung function tests
Treatment & management
- Observation for mild cases
- Physiotherapy and exercises to improve posture
- Vacuum bell device in selected patients
- Surgery (such as the Nuss or Ravitch procedure) for severe cases
When to see a doctor urgently
- See a doctor if breathlessness or chest pain limits activity
- Seek assessment if the appearance affects wellbeing
- Discuss timing of any surgery, often best in the teenage years
Not a diagnosis. MedDroid gives general educational information about pectus excavatum (sunken chest). It cannot examine you, diagnose or prescribe — always confirm with a qualified doctor.
Frequently asked questions
Is pectus excavatum dangerous?
Most cases are mild and harmless, but severe forms can press on the heart and lungs and may need surgery.
Can it be corrected?
Yes — devices help mild cases, and surgery can correct severe ones.
Explore more
Sources & further reading
- World Health Organization (WHO)
- MedlinePlus — U.S. National Library of Medicine
- Ministry of Health & Family Welfare, India
- Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR)
Reviewed by Dr. Sanjay Anbu, MBBS. MedDroid is an AI medical assistant and can make mistakes. It provides general health information, not a diagnosis or medical advice — always consult a qualified clinician. In an emergency, contact your local emergency number immediately.