Patients with Pectus Excavatum in England can now receive corrective surgical treatment at National Health Service hospitals.
The NHS has updated its health policy regarding this condition based on evidence that the treatment can improve the health and quality of life of patients affected by this deformity, particularly those experiencing physiological impacts from the condition.Â
Pectus Excavatum, also known as “funnel chest“, is a deformity of the sternum that causes a depression in the chest. While the origin of this malformation remains unknown, it may be considered a hereditary condition.  Â
In addition to the psychological and self-esteem issues often experienced by these patients, the clinical presentation can range from chest pain, shortness of breath, palpitations, and syncope to arrhythmias or obstruction of the inferior vena cava, which could increase the anesthetic risk during surgical procedures.Â
NHS England offers the option of corrective surgical treatment for patients with Pectus Excavatum based on specific inclusion criteria, including a Haller index greater than 3.25, combined with the presence of dysphagia, arrhythmias, cardiac symptoms, cardiac compression evidenced by cardiac MRI, dysphagia caused by the condition, or cardiac or circulatory complications that prevent other surgeries.Â
NHS England reaffirms its commitment to reducing inequalities in access to healthcare services. This new policy represents a significant advancement for patients with Pectus Excavatum in England and for society as a whole, improving the lives of those affected by this condition and enhancing equity in healthcare and the public health system overall.Â
