Chest deformities in adults – how to treat congenital chest deformity?
Introduction
Chest wall deformities in adults are a problem that can have both congenital and acquired origins. While often associated with an aesthetic defect, in many cases they can also affect respiratory and circulatory function, or body posture. Early diagnosis and appropriate treatment – from exercises to advanced reconstructive surgery – allow to improve appearance, health, and quality of life.
Chest deformation
Chest wall deformity is an umbrella term encompassing various types of abnormalities in the structure of the sternum, ribs, and surrounding soft tissues. It can take the form of a protrusion, a depression, or an asymmetry, and its severity ranges from very subtle changes that are difficult to notice to severe defects visible to the naked eye. For many patients, it is primarily an aesthetic problem; however, in more severe cases, it can lead to breathing disorders, reduced lung capacity, or pressure on the heart.
Chest deformity ICD 10
In the ICD-10 classification, chest wall deformities are included in category M95–M99 as musculoskeletal system disorders. The most commonly used code is M95.4, which signifies congenital deformity of the sternum. Knowledge of this code is important not only for doctors but also for patients – particularly when seeking reimbursement for surgery or rehabilitation services. Thanks to the ICD classification, doctors worldwide use a uniform system, which facilitates diagnosing and managing patients.
Physical examination of the chest
A thorough physical examination of the chest is the basis for diagnosing any deformity. The doctor assesses the appearance and proportions of the sternum, the symmetry of the ribs, chest mobility during breathing, and potential deformities. The examination also includes auscultation of the heart and lungs, and, if necessary, is supplemented by X-rays, computed tomography, or magnetic resonance imaging. A thorough physical examination allows distinguishing purely aesthetic changes from those that threaten health and require swift intervention.
Chest doctor
The first specialist you should contact is a chest surgeon or a thoracic surgeon. In the case of congenital or post-traumatic deformities, a consultation with a plastic surgeon is also possible on our website .
Chest deformities
The term 'deformities' encompasses many types of defects: from funnel chest and pigeon chest to post-traumatic asymmetry. They can be genetically determined, result from abnormal development in childhood, or appear after trauma. Some patients primarily experience psychological discomfort, while others complain of breathing difficulties, problems with physical exertion, or back pain. It is worth remembering that even mild deformities can worsen with age.
Deformed chest
A deformed chest affects not only the figure, but also posture and muscle function. For many people, it is associated with low self-esteem, avoiding physical activity, or withdrawal from social life. Therefore, contemporary doctors emphasize that the decision regarding treatment should consider both the physical health and the mental well-being of the patient.
Congenital chest deformity
Congenital deformities develop as early as during fetal life and are usually visible from childhood. If not corrected at a young age, in adulthood they may require complex reconstructive surgeries. Defects such as funnel chest or pigeon chest often run in families, which suggests a genetic basis.
Chest deformation – Causes
Causes of deformities can be divided into congenital and acquired. Congenital causes include developmental disorders of the sternum and ribs, as well as genetic diseases such as Marfan syndrome. Acquired deformities are usually the result of injuries, rib fractures, lung diseases, as well as complications after surgical procedures. It is worth noting that sometimes the cause remains idiopathic – meaning not fully known.
Chest deformation in adults
In adults, deformities can cause many symptoms – from breathing problems, muscle and back pain, to aesthetic concerns. Conservative treatment, such as exercises or physiotherapy, yields limited results, which is why in most cases surgical treatment brings the best outcomes. Surgeries are more complex than in children, but thanks to modern techniques, very good results can be achieved.
Funnel chest deformity
Funnel chest (pectus excavatum) is one of the most common deformities, characterized by a sunken sternum. It manifests as a characteristic 'indentation' in the middle of the chest, which can compress the heart and lungs. Treatment most often involves surgery using the Nuss or Ravitch methods, and in adults, requires an experienced surgeon to ensure a safe and lasting effect.
Abnormal chest structure
An abnormal chest wall structure can indicate both a serious defect and a subtle asymmetry. In either scenario, it requires evaluation by a specialist, as even minor distortions can affect the mechanics of breathing.
Department of Chest Surgery
The thoracic surgery department is where the most serious deformities are diagnosed and treated. Here, both life-saving operations and reconstructive procedures that improve aesthetics are performed. Collaboration between thoracic surgeons and plastic surgeons offers patients the opportunity to restore health and bodily harmony (link).
Types of thoracic deformities – comparative table
Treatment of chest deformities
Treatment methods include:
- Physiotherapy and breathing exercises for mild deformities.
- Orthoses and orthopedic corsets are less commonly used in adults.
- Reconstructive surgery – the gold standard in severe deformities.
- Plastic correction – in cases where appearance is the priority (e.g., plastic surgery).
Treatment of Chest Wall Deformities - Summary
Chest wall deformities in adults are not merely an aesthetic defect – in many cases, they genuinely affect quality of life, physical performance, and the functioning of the respiratory and circulatory systems. Untreated, they can cause back pain, mobility limitations, or even psychological problems related to appearance. Modern medicine, however, offers a wide range of therapeutic options. Individuals with mild deformities can benefit from physiotherapy, breathing exercises, and muscle-strengthening exercises, while patients with advanced deformities will gain the most benefit from reconstructive surgery. Surgeries performed in experienced centers not only improve the appearance of the chest but also restore its proper function. Every case is unique and requires a thorough diagnosis. Therefore, a key step is a consultation with a specialist who will assess the degree of deformity and choose the appropriate treatment method. This makes it possible to achieve not only an aesthetic effect but also an improvement in health and quality of life.
If you notice symptoms of a chest wall deformity, do not delay seeing a doctor. Early diagnosis offers more treatment options and increases the chance of full therapeutic success.
