Flat chest, also known as platythorax chest, is a common chest wall deformity characterized by a visibly flattened appearance of the chest wall. The anteroposterior diameter is significantly shortened, often measuring less than half of the transverse diameter. While this condition may appear primarily cosmetic, it can have substantial effects on cardiopulmonary function. Patients often wonder whether platythorax can truly affect breathing—and the answer lies in how the deformity changes the physical space of the thoracic cavity.
How Platythorax Impacts the Heart and Lungs
In individuals with platythorax chest, the reduced front-to-back dimension of the thorax can compress internal organs, especially the heart and lungs. This compression may lead to shortness of breath, palpitations, chest tightness, and fatigue, particularly during physical exertion. In more severe cases, restricted lung expansion and cardiac compression may impair both pulmonary and cardiac function, leading to reduced cardiopulmonary efficiency. Additionally, patients may experience spontaneous pneumothorax or chronic respiratory discomfort, making early medical assessment essential.
Diagnosis and Advanced Surgical Care
Diagnosis is primarily achieved through physical examination, combined with imaging tests such as X-ray and CT scans. For patients requiring correction, The Institute of Chest Wall Surgery (ICWS) provides specialized surgical solutions, including their innovative Wung procedure. This method improves upon traditional techniques by optimizing bar placement and fixation, enhancing both safety and postoperative recovery.
Restoring Confidence and Healthy Breathing
With over 15 years of experience and more than 10,000 successful surgeries, The Institute of Chest Wall Surgery (ICWS) continues to advance minimally invasive techniques for conditions like flattened chest. Their expertise ensures that patients not only regain normal breathing function but also improve their quality of life and self-confidence through safe, effective surgical correction.
