Overview of chest wall deformities.

Chest wall deformities are congenital disorders characterized by abnormal development and appearance of the thoracic wall. The most common form is the pectus excavatum deformity, known as shoemaker's chest. Pectus carinatum, known as pigeon chest, is the second most common deformity. In general, most patients are asymptomatic, but cardiopulmonary problems may accompany the disease. The indication for treatment is mostly cosmetic. Treating patients before they reach adulthood increases the chance of success. Surgical treatment can be open or minimally invasive.