Pectus Excavatum Program

About the program

This multidisciplinary program is unique in the breadth of specialists who are available to provide state-of-the-art care for your child. Your surgeon will administer a variety of tests to determine the best course of treatment to correct the chest malformation and improve your child’s breathing, cardiac function, posture, and ability to exercise. These include:

• Cardiac tests: electrocardiogram, echocardiogram
• Chest imaging: chest x-ray, chest CT (computerized tomography)
• Laboratory studies
• Physical examination
• Pulmonary function tests (performed by a pulmonologist) as an exercise stress test

Part of Mass General Brigham for Children

Partnering to provide optimal surgical care

Pectus excavatum may be present at birth and often becomes more severe as children reach adolescence. Pediatric thoracic surgeons at Mass General Brigham for Children will work with a multidisciplinary team of experts in imaging, pulmonology, and cardiology to provide a personalized treatment program for your child, which may include minimally invasive surgical options. And since Mass General Brigham for Children is an integral part of Mass General Brigham, your child’s care does not end here when they become adults, but can continue seamlessly throughout their life.