For patients
Understanding Chest Wall Conditions and Treatment Concepts
This page provides general educational information for individuals and families seeking to better understand chest wall conditions and evolving treatment concepts. It is not intended to provide medical advice or recommend any specific treatment.
Living With Pectus Excavatum
Pectus excavatum is a condition in which the breastbone (sternum) sits lower than typical, creating a visible depression in the chest wall. The condition can vary widely between individuals.
Some people experience physical symptoms, while others are primarily affected by appearance or quality-of-life concerns. For many individuals, the condition may change over time, particularly during periods of growth and development.
Evaluation and treatment decisions are highly individualized and should always be discussed with a qualified healthcare professional.
How Chest Wall Elevation Is Approached
Surgical treatment approaches for pectus excavatum have traditionally involved placing support devices inside the chest to lift and reshape the chest wall over time. These internal approaches have been used internationally for many years and are supported by established clinical experience.
In addition to these established methods, engineers and clinicians have explored alternative ways to elevate the chest wall using different mechanical and anatomical pathways. These efforts reflect ongoing work within the global medical community to better understand how chest wall conditions may be addressed.
What Is Pectus Up® — at a Conceptual Level
Pectus Up® is a chest wall elevation system developed outside the United States with established international use. It is currently under review by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and is not available for clinical use in the United States.
Unlike traditional internal support methods, the system is designed around an external mechanical approach. Rather than placing a support device inside the chest cavity, the system is designed to interface with the front of the chest wall and apply controlled elevation forces from outside the thoracic cavity.
This description reflects design intent only and does not describe a medical procedure.
What “External Mechanical Approach” Means
At a high level, an external mechanical approach refers to:
- Interacting with the chest wall from outside the chest cavity
- Applying controlled forces to elevate the sternum
- Adjusting those forces over time as part of the system’s design
This concept is presented to help patients understand how different design philosophies exist — not to suggest suitability, outcomes, or treatment decisions.
Why Some Patients Choose to Learn Over Time
Because pectus excavatum varies from person to person, some individuals and families choose to:
- Monitor changes over time
- Learn about currently available treatment approaches
- Stay informed about emerging technologies that are under regulatory review
This process can support thoughtful discussions with healthcare providers about timing, goals, and personal priorities.
Support Resources (link below)
Some individuals find it helpful to explore additional educational resources or connect with patient advocacy organizations when learning about chest wall conditions. The following types of resources may support general understanding and informed conversations with healthcare providers:
- Reputable patient advocacy groups focused on chest wall conditions
- Professional medical associations that provide educational materials for patients and families
- Clinician-authored resources that explain evaluation and treatment considerations
Patients are encouraged to discuss any questions or concerns with a qualified healthcare professional who can provide guidance based on currently authorized options and individual circumstances.
