Condition
Pediatric Pectus Excavatum
What You Need to Know
Pectus excavatum (sometimes called cobbler's chest, sunken chest, or funnel chest) is the most common chest deformity and is caused when several ribs and the sternum grow abnormally, which produces a caved-in or sunken appearance of the chest.
Key Symptoms
While physical appearance such as a sunken chest or funnel chest are the biggest indicator of pectus excavatum, some other symptoms may include:
- Shortness of breath
- Chest pain
- Exercise intolerance
- Fatigue
- Wheezing
- Scoliosis
- Psychological effects
Diagnosis
Pectus excavatum will most likely diagnosed through a physical exam and often supplemented with imaging tests such as:
- X-rays
- CT scans
Treatment
In moderate and severe cases, pectus excavatum may require surgery, which has proven very effective at correcting the condition and its psychological and physical effects.
Schedule an Appointment
Our pediatric specialists provide personalized care for your child’s physical, mental and emotional health needs. Meet the providers who treat pectus excavatum and schedule an appointment today.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is pectus excavatum?
What is the treatment for pectus excavatum in children?
What is the thoracoscopic Nuss procedure for children?
Ravitch technique
Departments that Treat Pectus Excavatum

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.