Abstract
Chest wall deformities are congenital disorders characterized by
abnormal development and appearance of the thoracic wall. The
most common form is the pectus excavatum deformity, known as
shoemaker's chest. Pectus carinatum, known as pigeon chest, is
the second most common deformity. In general, most patients are
asymptomatic, but cardiopulmonary problems may accompany
the disease. The indication for treatment is mostly cosmetic.
Treating patients before they reach adulthood increases the
chance of success. Surgical treatment can be open or minimally
invasive.