Chest Wall Defects: An Integrated Multidisciplinary Approach by Assessing Treatment Approaches and Tracking Clinical Progress

Abstract

Chest wall deformities represent a diverse spectrum of conditions encountered frequently in pediatrics’ medical practice. They manifest with various phenotypic expressions and, although typically benign, can lead to significant physiological and psychological impacts, some of which pose life-threatening risks. To facilitate systematic understanding, these deformities can be categorized into distinct groups, including: (1) pectus excavatum, (2) pectus carinatum, (3) Poland syndrome, (4) sternal defects, and (5) pectus arcuatum. This chapter aims to comprehensively elucidate these deformities, providing insights into their non-surgical and surgical management, including the latest diagnostic and treatment modalities. Additionally, it delves into the psychological and physiological ramifications experienced by young patients and their families, thereby offering a holistic understanding of the impact of these conditions on their lives.