Funnel Chest (pectus excavatum)
Update 2023
In the majority of cases, a funnel-shaped depression of the anterior chest wall develops, especially during puberty. The cause lies in an insufficiently mechanically firm sternum in the context of the growing organism. In about 30% of patients, there is a funnel chest patient in the family. Men are affected four times more often than women.
General information
- A funnel located mostly in the distal part of the sternum.
- Aetiology is still unclear. There is contiguity to a mechanical instability of the sternum and an overgrowth of the rib cartilages.
- 90% are noticeable within the first year of life.
