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Condition

Pediatric Pectus Carinatum

What is pectus carinatum?

Pectus carinatum, sometimes called “pigeon breast,” is caused when the breastbone is pushed outward, and occurs only about a third as often as pectus excavatum.

Because it affects the appearance of children, pectus carinatum can cause psychological and social problems. Moreover, it can hamper the ability of the heart and lungs to function normally, and can cause pain in the chest, back and elsewhere. In addition, pectus carinatum is associated with scoliosis.

Appointments

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is the treatment for pectus carinatum in children?

Chest-wall braces for children

Surgery

Ravitch technique

Providers Who Treat Pectus Carinatum

    Departments that Treat Pectus Carinatum

    Chest Wall Defects Program

    Although chest wall abnormalities are actually quite common in children, Children's National's team of pediatric specialists have the experience to accurately diagnose the condition and understand how treatment affects a child who is still growing.

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    General and Thoracic Surgery

    The pediatric surgical experts at Children's National in Washington, D.C., provide advanced, comprehensive surgical care for infants, children and teenagers.

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    Pulmonary Medicine

    Children's National is ranked by U.S. News & World Report as one of the nation's best pediatric hospitals for pulmonology and lung surgery because of our expertise in the field, and the quality of care provided to patients and their families.