a relatively common anterior chest wall deformity which is mostly asymptomatic but in some can cause reduced venous return / RV outflow obstruction issues with may result in a clinical picture similar to postural orthostatic tachycardia syndrome (POTS)
may cause a CXR appearance which could be confused with partial collapse of R lung as it gives a large triangular consolidation-like appearance of lung adjacent to R heart border on PA views
Symptomatic pectus excavatum
may impact venous return due to compression of the heart and great vessels, potentially leading to reduced cardiac output and exercise intolerance
can compress the right ventricle, affecting its ability to fill with blood, especially in upright positions, and potentially causing symptoms like postural dizziness or fainting
can also lead to outflow obstruction of the hepatic veins and inferior vena cava (IVC), which can affect venous return from the lower body and rarely may cause peripheral oedema of legs
may cause reduced chest wall motion and increased reliance on abdominal breathing
Surgical Mx of severe symptomatic cases
may improve RV cardiac output by 38% in all adults, and 60% in those over 60yrs 1)