Surgery of other congenital anomalies of the anterior thoracic wall

Abstract

Isolated rib deformities in the sense of skeletal prominences may characterize minimally pronounced forms of keel chest deformities, which are caused by overgrowth of a single rib or several conjoined ribs. Such a deformity can occur unilaterally parasternally (Figs. 1 and 4), but may also be present bilaterally and symmetrically (Figs. 2 and 5). Above all the symmetrical rib deformities at the area of the lower thorax aperture can mean a sufferable aesthetic deformity for many patients. Such deformities almost always and without exception present without functional impairment. Occasionally patients complain about pressure symptoms however based on such bony or cartilaginous prominences, above all in the prone or lateral position. Occasionally there are also job-related troubles through carrying special security belts, which must be put around the thorax. Such deformities, if do not lead to job-related functional impairment or troubles must be regarded as pure aesthetic deficiencies, representing solely as a subjective impairment.