Center for Chest Wall Deformities

Comprehensive care for pectus excavatum, pectus carinatum and other chest wall conditions

Expert care for chest wall differences

Connecticut Children’s Center for Chest Wall Deformities provides expert evaluation and treatment for children and teens with chest wall abnormalities such as pectus excavatum (sunken chest), pectus carinatum (pigeon chest) and other structural differences in the chest wall.
 

Our pediatric surgery team uses the latest evidence-based guidelines and a family-centered approach to guide your child’s treatment from diagnosis through recovery. Care is available in Hartford, Danbury and Westport, CT.

Conditions we treat

We care for a variety of chest wall deformities, including:
•    Pectus excavatum – A depression of the breastbone (sternum) that may cause breathing restrictions or self-consciousness
•    Pectus carinatum – Outward protrusion of the breastbone and ribs, often becoming more noticeable during puberty
•    Other chest wall differences that may affect chest symmetry, movement or comfort
 

illustration of inward chest

Individualized treatment plans

Every child’s condition is evaluated based on symptoms, anatomy, age and development. We offer both non-surgical and surgical options depending on severity:
 

For pectus excavatum:

  • If the chest indentation is greater than 2.5 cm, surgery may be recommended.
  • We use the Nuss Procedure, a minimally invasive technique that places a curved bar behind the sternum to reshape the chest wall. The bar typically stays in place for about three years

For pectus carinatum:

  • Early intervention with a custom chest brace is often successful in younger children and adolescents.
  • Surgery may be considered for older children or when bracing is not effective.

Our team follows enhanced recovery protocols and incorporates pain management, physical therapy and family support into every care plan.

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Our Team

With nearly 40 years of experience performing the Nuss procedure and other advanced treatments, our pediatric surgery team brings trusted, compassionate expertise to families across the state.

Richard Weiss, MD, FACS

Pediatric Surgeon

Christine Rader, MD, FACS

Pediatric Surgeon

Frequently Asked Questions

The two most common are pectus excavatum, where the chest appears sunken, and pectus carinatum, where the chest protrudes outward. Both are caused by abnormal growth of the cartilage that connects the ribs to the breastbone.

Treatment depends on the type of deformity, severity, and your child’s age and stage of development.

  • Pectus carinatum may be treated with bracing during early adolescence, while older children or severe cases may need surgery.
  • Pectus excavatum is typically treated surgically if the indentation is deep enough to affect internal organs or cause symptoms.

Early consultation with a pediatric surgery team helps determine the right timing and approach—whether non-surgical or surgical.

In some cases, untreated pectus excavatum may limit lung expansion and reduce stamina during physical activity. Children may also experience self-esteem concerns due to the appearance of the chest. Pectus carinatum is usually not dangerous, but may worsen over time if not treated during growth. A proper diagnosis helps determine whether intervention is needed.

Schedule an appointment

If your child has a chest wall difference, Connecticut Children’s pediatric surgery experts can help you explore the right treatment options—early, effective and personalized.

Call 860.545.9520 to connect with our Center for Chest Wall Deformities.