Bracing for pectus repair

Orthotics Department

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Bracing for Pectus Deformities PIAG 154 (167kB pdf)

Why has a brace been prescribed and what is my child entitled to?

Your child has been prescribed a brace, specially designed individually from a scan of their skin surface and utilizing the 3D EOS low dose X-Ray. This combination allows for the perfect fit.

You will be provided with 1 brace.

There are a range of pectus deformities –

Pectus Carinatum: This is sometimes referred to as pigeon chested due to a protruding sternum and ribs. This can lead to discomfort and/or shortness of breath.

Pectus Excavatum: The most common congenital deformity of this kind. Abnormal growth of the ribs and sternum causes a sunken or caved-in chest.

Care of the brace

Regularly clean the brace with mild soap and water, towel dry and keep away from direct heat sources i.e. radiator, as the material may distort.

It is your responsibility to bring the device to the orthotics department for repairs as and when necessary i.e. when straps or pads become worn down.

It is also your responsibility to contact the department if the wearers condition changes or if the brace no longer fits correctly.

You will be provided with a second brace only when the Orthotist or Technician deem it no longer clinically effective or beyond repair.

How is a brace fitted and wearing the spinal brace

The spinal brace will be fitted by one of our trained Orthotists in clinic. The Spinal team have developed a specialist treatment plan to get the best results from wearing the scanned brace.

The Orthotist will advise you on how to properly fit your child’s brace but when putting the brace on, ensure the brace is in the correct place.

When first wearing the brace, it should be worn for up to 4 hours. On the second day, this can be extended to wearing it overnight and taking it off in the morning to wash.

This can then be extended to wearing it longer for school etc. The aim is to work towards the clinically recommended time of 18-23 hours per day.

The brace can be removed for the short period of time of playing sport, but the recommended wear time should still be met.

It is recommended to wear the brace as tight as possible to achieve the best correction and positioning of the brace.

What issues do I need to be aware of?

Some red marking of the skin is normal, but as the brace is designed to fit close and neat to the skin of the individual, rubbing and redness should not be an issue. If this does occur, please contact the department for a review appointment.

Children do grow, sometimes frequently and rapidly, please contact the department if you feel the brace no longer fits or becomes uncomfortable for the wearer and you will be provided with a review appointment.

This leaflet only gives general information. You must always discuss the individual treatment of your child with the appropriate member of staff. Do not rely on this leaflet alone for information about your child’s treatment.