Chest Deformity Orthoses

CHEST ORTHOSES

Chest Wall Deformity Orthoses are orthopedic devices used to treat conditions where the normal shape of the chest cage is distorted. These deformities are commonly associated with diseases such as pectus excavatum (sunken chest) and pectus carinatum (protruding chest). Additionally, chest wall deformities can also occur due to scoliosis (curvature of the spine). Orthoses work by applying external pressure to the body to correct these deformities or prevent their progression.

Types of Chest Wall Deformity Orthoses

Pectus Excavatum Orthoses
Indication: Pectus excavatum is a condition where the chest cage sinks inward and is usually congenital. These orthoses aim to push the chest cage outward to correct the deformity.
Features: These orthoses are generally made of elastic materials and apply outward pressure on the patient’s chest cage. They tend to be more effective in children and adolescents because their bone structure is still developing.
Example: Pectus Excavatum Brace: Body-conforming and adjustable orthoses designed to correct sunken chest deformity.

Pectus Carinatum Orthoses

Indication: Pectus carinatum is characterized by the chest cage protruding outward. These orthoses help correct the protruding chest cage.
Features: Usually made with elastic materials, these orthoses apply inward pressure to the chest cage to assist in correcting the deformity. They often include adjustable straps and mechanisms to apply external pressure.
Example: Pectus Carinatum Orthoses: Removable orthoses used in the treatment of pectus carinatum.

Scoliosis and Chest Deformity Orthoses

Indication: Scoliosis is the lateral curvature of the spine, which can lead to chest wall deformities. These orthoses aim to prevent deformities caused by scoliosis.
Features: Orthoses that help maintain the spine and chest cage in the correct position. Typically made from plastic and rigid materials, they support from the shoulders and waist.
Example: Boston Brace: An orthosis designed to stabilize the chest cage and spine, commonly used in scoliosis treatment.

Purpose and Benefits:

Shape Correction: To correct deformities in the chest wall and restore the body’s normal shape.
Prevent Progression of Deformity: Especially in young patients, to prevent further worsening of the deformity.
Aesthetic Improvement: Correction of physical appearance changes.
Functional Improvement: Helping individuals with respiratory problems caused by chest wall deformities to recover.

These orthoses are usually custom-designed by orthopedic specialists according to the patient’s age, severity of deformity, and response to treatment. When used at an early age, they can prevent progression of the deformity and potentially avoid surgery.