Pectus deformities and their impact on pulmonary physiology.

Pectus excavatum (PE) and pectus carinatum (PC) are the most common anomalies of the thoracic cage and they have been recognized since ancient times [1-3]. The two conditions differ in their appearance, and their effect on lung function. There is no direct correlation between the appearance of the deformities and the clinical symptoms. Whether, and when these deformities should be corrected as well as with which method (surgical or conservative) remain controversial. The following article reviews the current concepts regarding the pathophysiology of both conditions as well as the advances in their evaluation and management.