{"id":4713,"date":"2026-01-05T09:00:56","date_gmt":"2026-01-05T09:00:56","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/glutenfreepleasure.com\/__proxy_domain\/www.icts.com.sg\/?page_id=4713"},"modified":"2026-06-25T10:47:25","modified_gmt":"2026-06-25T10:47:25","slug":"pectus-excavatum","status":"publish","type":"page","link":"https:\/\/glutenfreepleasure.com\/__proxy_domain\/www.icts.com.sg\/pectus-excavatum\/","title":{"rendered":"Pectus Excavatum\u00a0"},"content":{"rendered":"\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">A condition that is present from birth, pectus excavatum refers to the abnormal development of the breastbone. This causes an indentation of the chest wall. Over time, the condition can negatively impact heart and lung function, hence the need for appropriate medical treatment.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full is-resized\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"800\" height=\"888\" src=\"https:\/\/glutenfreepleasure.com\/__proxy_domain\/www.icts.com.sg\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/01\/image.jpeg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-4716\" style=\"aspect-ratio:0.9009099592780655;width:840px;height:auto\" srcset=\"https:\/\/glutenfreepleasure.com\/__proxy_domain\/www.icts.com.sg\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/01\/image.jpeg 800w, https:\/\/glutenfreepleasure.com\/__proxy_domain\/www.icts.com.sg\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/01\/image-270x300.jpeg 270w, https:\/\/glutenfreepleasure.com\/__proxy_domain\/www.icts.com.sg\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/01\/image-768x852.jpeg 768w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><em>Image credit: <a href=\"http:\/\/www.mayoclinic.org\"><span style=\"text-decoration: underline;\">www.mayoclinic.org<\/span><\/a><\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>What is Pectus Excavatum?<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">More commonly found in males than females, pectus excavatum is a congenital condition characterised by the abnormal inward growth of the breastbone (sternum), resulting in a sunken appearance of the chest wall. Due to its appearance, the condition is often referred to as \u201csunken chest\u201d or \u201cfunnel chest.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Although this condition typically exists from birth, it often becomes noticeable only after an individual experiences a growth spurt during puberty. Because of the unusual development of the breastbone, those with pectus excavatum may experience limited heart and lung function. As a result, medical treatment is often necessary to restore optimal function.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Treatment generally includes non-surgical methods for mild cases and surgery for more severe cases. Today, a minimally invasive surgical technique is a readily available option for individuals with pectus excavatum when appropriate.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Symptoms<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1600\" height=\"1066\" src=\"https:\/\/glutenfreepleasure.com\/__proxy_domain\/www.icts.com.sg\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/01\/image-1.jpeg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-4717\" srcset=\"https:\/\/glutenfreepleasure.com\/__proxy_domain\/www.icts.com.sg\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/01\/image-1.jpeg 1600w, https:\/\/glutenfreepleasure.com\/__proxy_domain\/www.icts.com.sg\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/01\/image-1-300x200.jpeg 300w, https:\/\/glutenfreepleasure.com\/__proxy_domain\/www.icts.com.sg\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/01\/image-1-1024x682.jpeg 1024w, https:\/\/glutenfreepleasure.com\/__proxy_domain\/www.icts.com.sg\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/01\/image-1-768x512.jpeg 768w, https:\/\/glutenfreepleasure.com\/__proxy_domain\/www.icts.com.sg\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/01\/image-1-1536x1023.jpeg 1536w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1600px) 100vw, 1600px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Patients with pectus excavatum MAY experience functional issues such as:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Fatigue<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Shortness of breath or reduced stamina compared to others during physical activity.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Chest pain<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Irregular heartbeat<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Heart palpitations<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Fainting or dizziness<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Frequent infections of the upper airway<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">In addition to the physical symptoms, those with this condition may also find themselves struggling with <strong>self-esteem<\/strong> issues stemming from their chest\u2019s appearance. In more severe cases, the stress and embarrassment from their state could lead to clinical depression.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Causes<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The exact cause of pectus excavatum remains unknown. While some experts suspect a connection to possible tissue diseases such as <a href=\"https:\/\/www.mayoclinic.org\/diseases-conditions\/marfan-syndrome\/symptoms-causes\/syc-20350782\">Marfan syndrome<\/a>, others suggest a possible link to genetics.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Diagnosis and Tests<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Pectus excavatum can generally be diagnosed through a simple physical examination once the condition is noticeable enough, which usually occurs during the teenage years. However, for a doctor to determine the extent to which pectus excavatum affects nearby organs, further tests may be required, such as:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-columns is-layout-flex wp-container-core-columns-is-layout-f56f613f wp-block-columns-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\" style=\"flex-basis:33.33%\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Imaging tests such as chest X-ray, computed tomography (CT) scan with 3D reconstruction, or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI).<\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\" style=\"flex-basis:66.66%\">\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1600\" height=\"1066\" src=\"https:\/\/glutenfreepleasure.com\/__proxy_domain\/www.icts.com.sg\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/01\/image-2.jpeg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-4718\" srcset=\"https:\/\/glutenfreepleasure.com\/__proxy_domain\/www.icts.com.sg\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/01\/image-2.jpeg 1600w, https:\/\/glutenfreepleasure.com\/__proxy_domain\/www.icts.com.sg\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/01\/image-2-300x200.jpeg 300w, https:\/\/glutenfreepleasure.com\/__proxy_domain\/www.icts.com.sg\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/01\/image-2-1024x682.jpeg 1024w, https:\/\/glutenfreepleasure.com\/__proxy_domain\/www.icts.com.sg\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/01\/image-2-768x512.jpeg 768w, https:\/\/glutenfreepleasure.com\/__proxy_domain\/www.icts.com.sg\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/01\/image-2-1536x1023.jpeg 1536w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1600px) 100vw, 1600px\" \/><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-columns is-layout-flex wp-container-core-columns-is-layout-f56f613f wp-block-columns-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\" style=\"flex-basis:33.33%\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Lung function test, such as pulmonary function tests (PFTs)<\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\" style=\"flex-basis:66.66%\">\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1600\" height=\"1066\" src=\"https:\/\/glutenfreepleasure.com\/__proxy_domain\/www.icts.com.sg\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/01\/image-3.jpeg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-4719\" srcset=\"https:\/\/glutenfreepleasure.com\/__proxy_domain\/www.icts.com.sg\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/01\/image-3.jpeg 1600w, https:\/\/glutenfreepleasure.com\/__proxy_domain\/www.icts.com.sg\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/01\/image-3-300x200.jpeg 300w, https:\/\/glutenfreepleasure.com\/__proxy_domain\/www.icts.com.sg\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/01\/image-3-1024x682.jpeg 1024w, https:\/\/glutenfreepleasure.com\/__proxy_domain\/www.icts.com.sg\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/01\/image-3-768x512.jpeg 768w, https:\/\/glutenfreepleasure.com\/__proxy_domain\/www.icts.com.sg\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/01\/image-3-1536x1023.jpeg 1536w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1600px) 100vw, 1600px\" \/><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-columns is-layout-flex wp-container-core-columns-is-layout-f56f613f wp-block-columns-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\" style=\"flex-basis:33.33%\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Heart function tests, such as an electrocardiogram (EKG) or an echocardiogram<\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\" style=\"flex-basis:66.66%\">\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1600\" height=\"1067\" src=\"https:\/\/glutenfreepleasure.com\/__proxy_domain\/www.icts.com.sg\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/01\/image-4.jpeg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-4720\" srcset=\"https:\/\/glutenfreepleasure.com\/__proxy_domain\/www.icts.com.sg\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/01\/image-4.jpeg 1600w, https:\/\/glutenfreepleasure.com\/__proxy_domain\/www.icts.com.sg\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/01\/image-4-300x200.jpeg 300w, https:\/\/glutenfreepleasure.com\/__proxy_domain\/www.icts.com.sg\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/01\/image-4-1024x683.jpeg 1024w, https:\/\/glutenfreepleasure.com\/__proxy_domain\/www.icts.com.sg\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/01\/image-4-768x512.jpeg 768w, https:\/\/glutenfreepleasure.com\/__proxy_domain\/www.icts.com.sg\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/01\/image-4-1536x1024.jpeg 1536w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1600px) 100vw, 1600px\" \/><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-columns is-layout-flex wp-container-core-columns-is-layout-f56f613f wp-block-columns-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\" style=\"flex-basis:33.33%\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Exercise Function Test<\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\" style=\"flex-basis:66.66%\">\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"2560\" height=\"1707\" src=\"https:\/\/glutenfreepleasure.com\/__proxy_domain\/www.icts.com.sg\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/01\/shutterstock_2484849589-scaled.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-4732\" srcset=\"https:\/\/glutenfreepleasure.com\/__proxy_domain\/www.icts.com.sg\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/01\/shutterstock_2484849589-scaled.jpg 2560w, https:\/\/glutenfreepleasure.com\/__proxy_domain\/www.icts.com.sg\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/01\/shutterstock_2484849589-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/glutenfreepleasure.com\/__proxy_domain\/www.icts.com.sg\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/01\/shutterstock_2484849589-1024x683.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/glutenfreepleasure.com\/__proxy_domain\/www.icts.com.sg\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/01\/shutterstock_2484849589-768x512.jpg 768w, https:\/\/glutenfreepleasure.com\/__proxy_domain\/www.icts.com.sg\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/01\/shutterstock_2484849589-1536x1024.jpg 1536w, https:\/\/glutenfreepleasure.com\/__proxy_domain\/www.icts.com.sg\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/01\/shutterstock_2484849589-2048x1365.jpg 2048w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 2560px) 100vw, 2560px\" \/><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Based on the above, a cardiothoracic specialist can determine the severity of a patient\u2019s condition. Typically, a severity assessment called the Haller Index is used to classify a patient\u2019s case as mild, moderate, or severe based on their imaging test results. Specifically, the index is used to categorise the degree of depression based on the imaging results.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Management and Treatment<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Treatment of pectus excavatum can vary depending on the severity of the patient\u2019s condition. For milder cases, the condition can be managed through physical therapy and medical devices. In more serious cases, surgical intervention may be more beneficial.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Non-Surgical Therapies<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">In mild cases, patients may be encouraged to undergo physical therapy or posture. These activities aim to increase the space in the chest area that may allow the heart and lungs to function better.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Alternatively, vacuum bell therapy may be an option for younger children to improve the position of the breastbone. A cup-shaped device is used to gently pull the breastbone forward to create more space in the chest wall. To ensure its effectiveness, the device needs to be used for several hours a day for 12 to 15 months.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Surgery<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">For patients with serious physical symptoms, surgery may be necessary to alleviate them. This may include a minimally invasive surgery or a traditional open surgery. Depending on your condition, your cardiothoracic surgeon will be able to advise the appropriate treatment option.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Minimally invasive surgery known as the Nuss procedure:\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>During the procedure, a surgeon will make two small incisions on the side of the patient\u2019s chest and insert a guiding camera.&nbsp;<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>A curved steel bar will then be inserted and placed under the breastbone to create more space in the chest wall.&nbsp;&nbsp;<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>This bar is meant to remain inside for several years before eventual removal after the chest indentation has been corrected..<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Traditional open surgery, known as the Ravitch procedure:\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>An incision is made on the front of the chest where a surgeon will remove the abnormal tissue growth causing the chest indentation.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>The breastbone will then be pulled forward to create space in the chest wall.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>A small plate and bar will then be placed inside to secure the breastbone position.&nbsp;<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Eventually, the bar will be removed in 12 months in a short day surgery, but the plate shall remain in the chest.&nbsp;<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Patients who undergo surgery are generally satisfied with their improved symptoms and chest appearance and are able to make a full recovery in several months. For optimal outcomes, surgery is usually recommended for patients between 10 and 14 years of age, when the chest wall is still flexible.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">As with any procedure, rare but possible complications can happen, such as bleeding, infection, or injury to surrounding structures. Therefore, patients are highly encouraged to seek out experienced cardiothoracic surgeons to mitigate their chances.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Potential Complications<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">In cases of an untreated sunken chest, patients may experience progressively worsening symptoms that affect their quality of life. These may include:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Respiratory issues, such as recurring shortness of breath or reduced lung capacity<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Cardiac problems, such as heart compression and arrhythmias<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Psychological effects, such as anxiety and low self-esteem<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Negative impacts on other organs and overall health<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-columns is-layout-flex wp-container-core-columns-is-layout-f56f613f wp-block-columns-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\" style=\"flex-basis:66.66%\">\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>When to See a Doctor&nbsp;<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1600\" height=\"1600\" src=\"https:\/\/glutenfreepleasure.com\/__proxy_domain\/www.icts.com.sg\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/01\/image-5.jpeg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-4721\" srcset=\"https:\/\/glutenfreepleasure.com\/__proxy_domain\/www.icts.com.sg\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/01\/image-5.jpeg 1600w, https:\/\/glutenfreepleasure.com\/__proxy_domain\/www.icts.com.sg\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/01\/image-5-300x300.jpeg 300w, https:\/\/glutenfreepleasure.com\/__proxy_domain\/www.icts.com.sg\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/01\/image-5-1024x1024.jpeg 1024w, https:\/\/glutenfreepleasure.com\/__proxy_domain\/www.icts.com.sg\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/01\/image-5-150x150.jpeg 150w, https:\/\/glutenfreepleasure.com\/__proxy_domain\/www.icts.com.sg\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/01\/image-5-768x768.jpeg 768w, https:\/\/glutenfreepleasure.com\/__proxy_domain\/www.icts.com.sg\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/01\/image-5-1536x1536.jpeg 1536w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1600px) 100vw, 1600px\" \/><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-vertically-aligned-center is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\" style=\"flex-basis:60%\">\n<div style=\"height:35px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">If not detected at birth, you may start to notice the above symptoms as the chest continues to sink. This may prompt an initial visit to a specialist who can provide an accurate diagnosis and work out a proper treatment plan with you. Ideally, you will need to undergo regular checks to monitor the progression of your symptoms and determine when surgery may be needed if they worsen.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">In Singapore, you can <a href=\"https:\/\/glutenfreepleasure.com\/__proxy_domain\/www.icts.com.sg\/contact-us\/\">schedule<\/a> a consultation with <a href=\"https:\/\/glutenfreepleasure.com\/__proxy_domain\/www.icts.com.sg\/about-us\/\">Dr Aneez D.B. Ahmed<\/a>, Medical Director and Senior Consultant Thoracic Surgeon, at the International Centre for Thoracic Surgery (ICTS). With over 2 decades of experience, Dr Aneez is experienced in handling complex thoracic surgeries, including a sunken chest (pectus excavatum) surgery.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)&nbsp;<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<section id=\"b69536\" class=\"section-b69536 gutentor-module gutentor-module-accordion has-gutentor-block-shape-top has-gutentor-block-shape-bottom\"><div class=\"gutentor-block-shape-top\"><\/div><div class=\"grid-container\">\n<section id=\"700080\" class=\"section-700080 gutentor-module gutentor-module-accordion-item\"><div class=\"gutentor-module-accordion-panel g-a-panel-b69536\"><div tabindex=\"0\" class=\"gm-ah-b69536 gutentor-module-accordion-item-heading gutentor-module-icon-position-right\"><span class=\"gutentor-module-accordion-panel-handler\" role=\"button\"><span class=\"gutentor-module-accordion-panel-handler-label\">1. Is a Pectus Excavatum or sunken chest dangerous?<\/span><span class=\"gutentor-module-accordion-icon\"><i class=\"gm-aio-b69536 gutentor-module-accordion-icon-open fas fa-plus\"><\/i><i class=\"gm-aic-b69536 gutentor-module-accordion-icon-close fas fa-minus\"><\/i><\/span><\/span><\/div><div class=\"gm-ab-b69536 gutentor-module-accordion-body\">\n<div id=\"section-gc4da45\" class=\"section-gc4da45 gutentor-element gutentor-element-advanced-text wp-block-gutentor-e0\"><div class=\"gutentor-text-wrap\"><p class=\"gutentor-text\">Pectus excavatum is not always dangerous. However, those with a severely sunken chest may experience serious symptoms.<\/p><\/div><\/div>\n<\/div><\/div><\/section>\n\n\n\n<section id=\"05db75\" class=\"section-05db75 gutentor-module gutentor-module-accordion-item\"><div class=\"gutentor-module-accordion-panel g-a-panel-b69536\"><div tabindex=\"0\" class=\"gm-ah-b69536 gutentor-module-accordion-item-heading gutentor-module-icon-position-right\"><span class=\"gutentor-module-accordion-panel-handler\" role=\"button\"><span class=\"gutentor-module-accordion-panel-handler-label\">2. Are there any exercises that can prevent a sunken chest from worsening?<\/span><span class=\"gutentor-module-accordion-icon\"><i class=\"gm-aio-b69536 gutentor-module-accordion-icon-open fas fa-plus\"><\/i><i class=\"gm-aic-b69536 gutentor-module-accordion-icon-close fas fa-minus\"><\/i><\/span><\/span><\/div><div class=\"gm-ab-b69536 gutentor-module-accordion-body\">\n<div id=\"section-g4dde8b\" class=\"section-g4dde8b gutentor-element gutentor-element-advanced-text wp-block-gutentor-e0\"><div class=\"gutentor-text-wrap\"><p class=\"gutentor-text\">Yes, there are exercises ranging from deep breathing techniques to posture therapy, and more to expand the chest wall and prevent further indentation.&nbsp;<\/p><\/div><\/div>\n<\/div><\/div><\/section>\n\n\n\n<section id=\"7084cb\" class=\"section-7084cb gutentor-module gutentor-module-accordion-item\"><div class=\"gutentor-module-accordion-panel g-a-panel-b69536\"><div tabindex=\"0\" class=\"gm-ah-b69536 gutentor-module-accordion-item-heading gutentor-module-icon-position-right\"><span class=\"gutentor-module-accordion-panel-handler\" role=\"button\"><span class=\"gutentor-module-accordion-panel-handler-label\">3. How long does surgery for a sunken chest (Pectus Excavatum) take?<\/span><span class=\"gutentor-module-accordion-icon\"><i class=\"gm-aio-b69536 gutentor-module-accordion-icon-open fas fa-plus\"><\/i><i class=\"gm-aic-b69536 gutentor-module-accordion-icon-close fas fa-minus\"><\/i><\/span><\/span><\/div><div class=\"gm-ab-b69536 gutentor-module-accordion-body\">\n<div id=\"section-g6dc6e5\" class=\"section-g6dc6e5 gutentor-element gutentor-element-advanced-text wp-block-gutentor-e0\"><div class=\"gutentor-text-wrap\"><p class=\"gutentor-text\">Depending on the type of surgery, a pectus excavatum usually takes several hours to complete.<\/p><\/div><\/div>\n<\/div><\/div><\/section>\n<\/div><div class=\"gutentor-block-shape-bottom\"><\/div><\/section>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>References<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<ol class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>PectusUp. Severity of my pectus excavatum. PectusUp. Updated June\u202f22,\u202f2023. Accessed November\u202f23,\u202f2025.<br><a href=\"https:\/\/pectusup.com\/en\/severity-of-my-pectus-excavatum\/?utm_source=chatgpt.com\">PectusUp<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Pectus excavatum. Cleveland Clinic. P\u202fExcavatum. Pectus excavatum: Symptoms, causes &amp; treatment. Cleveland Clinic. Published [date\u202fnot\u202fstated]. Accessed November\u202f23,\u202f2025.<br><a href=\"https:\/\/my.clevelandclinic.org\/health\/diseases\/17328-pectus-excavatum?utm_source=chatgpt.com\">Pectus excavatum<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Pectus excavatum: Diagnosis &amp; treatment. Mayo Clinic. Published March\u202f14,\u202f2025. Accessed November\u202f23,\u202f2025.<br><a href=\"https:\/\/www.mayoclinic.org\/diseases-conditions\/pectus-excavatum\/diagnosis-treatment\/drc-20355488?utm_source=chatgpt.com\">Pectus excavatum: Diagnosis &amp; treatment<\/a><\/li>\n<\/ol>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>A condition that is present from birth, pectus excavatum refers to the abnormal development of the breastbone. This causes an indentation of the chest wall. 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