Pectus Carinatum or ‘Pigeon Chest’ is a condition that causes a prominence of the sternum or breastbone. It can be of varying severity and may cause anxiety to some. It is possible that more severe cases may interfere with full lung function.
Due to the re-modelling characteristics of the bones and ligaments of the chest wall, pectus carinatum can be reduced or normalized with a compressive force on the chest. Over time with compression, the chest wall changes shape and flattens out, giving a more normal appearance.
To achieve a compressive force on the chest, a chest orthosis (or brace) is used. This is simply called a pectus brace.
The pectus brace is worn as much as possible until the chest deformity has normalized. This may take up to six months. After the shape has normalized the brace is worn at night only for a further three to six months to prevent a relapse. After this, the chest should remain in a corrected shape.
To put the brace on, position the brace on the chest over the highest part of the prominence, the vertical pad goes at the back, horizontal pad at the front. Thread the ladder strap through the ratchet on the side and tighten. Tighten enough so that compression is felt but breathing feels normal. The brace is removed by the undoing the ratchet on the side of the brace. Push down on the release lever to undo. When removing the brace, only one side needs to be loosened.
Our custom Pectus Carinatum brace features a low profile design with both anterior and posterior panels with a flexible surround that easily contours around the patient’s chest. These panels are designed to direct both an anterior and posterior force needed for compressive correction.
The Pectus Carinatum panels are made of a aluminum outside and lined with a softer sponge that provides comfort and easily conforms against the chest. The surround has an adjustable plastic ratchet system on both sides for easy fit and adjustability.
Pectus Carinatum or ‘Pigeon Chest’ is a condition that causes a prominence of the sternum or breastbone. It can be of varying severity and may cause anxiety to some. It is possible that more severe cases may interfere with full lung function.
Due to the re-modelling characteristics of the bones and ligaments of the chest wall, pectus carinatum can be reduced or normalized with a compressive force on the chest. Over time with compression, the chest wall changes shape and flattens out, giving a more normal appearance.
To achieve a compressive force on the chest, a chest orthosis (or brace) is used. This is simply called a pectus brace.
The pectus brace is worn as much as possible until the chest deformity has normalized. This may take up to six months. After the shape has normalized the brace is worn at night only for a further three to six months to prevent a relapse. After this, the chest should remain in a corrected shape.
How Can We Use The Product?
To put the brace on, position the brace on the chest over the highest part of the prominence, the vertical pad goes at the back, horizontal pad at the front. Thread the ladder strap through the ratchet on the side and tighten. Tighten enough so that compression is felt but breathing feels normal. The brace is removed by the undoing the ratchet on the side of the brace. Push down on the release lever to undo. When removing the brace, only one side needs to be loosened.
How Can Parents Help?
Most kids do well with wearing their brace. But some kids struggle with it. Parents can work with their child to find ways to make it work. If a child feels embarrassed about wearing the brace, they can wear a baggy shirt or only wear it while sleeping.
It’s OK for kids to occasionally have "time off" for important events, like a dance or beach day. Some kids feel better about wearing the brace if they know they will get a reward at the end of the week, like going to a movie or being able to pick a special meal.
Our custom Pectus Carinatum brace features a low profile design with both anterior and posterior panels with a flexible surround that easily contours around the patient’s chest. These panels are designed to direct both an anterior and posterior force needed for compressive correction.
The Pectus Carinatum panels are made of a aluminum outside and lined with a softer sponge that provides comfort and easily conforms against the chest. The surround has an adjustable plastic ratchet system on both sides for easy fit and adjustability.