Preliminary results of orthotic treatment of pectus deformities in children and adolescents.

Fifty-five children and adolescents with different types of pectus deformities and a minimum follow-up of 1 year were assessed to determine the effectiveness of nonoperative treatment with a dynamic chest compressor orthosis. Thirty-seven patients were treated and compared with 18 untreated patients. The treated patients had a better outcome. Reshaping of the contour of the chest wall was observed in 21 patients with inferior and lateral types of pectus carinatum. The dynamic chest compressor has minimal morbidity and is a valuable treatment option of pectus deformities in the growing period.