Computed tomography can demonstrate the chest anatomy, but, clinical photographs, used in our studies, were found to represent a simpler, more efficient, harmless and less expensive method of evaluating pectus deformities. Pectus carinatum and excavatum are complex deformities anatomically subdivided into several and sometimes mixed types of various degrees of severity. Photographic documentation is the ideal method to demonstrate the several aspects of protrusion and depression components of a given deformity [*see scientific reference below]. Clinical photographs must be taken always from the same angle.

The results shown in this site do not mean that the same results will happen to patients with similar deformities. The examples here shown are of patients who followed properly the medical instructions during treatment and intend to demonstrate that bone and cartilage remodeling of the anterior chest wall – a malleable region – can occur, avoiding surgery. 

Medical assistance is essential for treatment progress and to prevent complications, like overcorrection and worsening of skin irritation [*]. Patient’s will power and persistence in a long term period (one or more years) are essential for a successful DR method treatment.

Pectus deformities are very common [**] and they are not only a cosmetic problem. They also imply psychological problems to the patients and their families, deserving an ample social discussion.

[*]   Haje SA, Haje DP (2006) Overcorrection during treatment of pectus deformities with DCC orthoses: experience in 17 cases. International Orthopaedics (SICOT), vol. 30/4: 262-267. Online: http://www.pubmedcentral.nih.gov/articlerender.fcgi?artid=2532136.

[**] Haje DP, Haje SA, Simioni MA. (2002) Prevalência das deformidades pectus carinatum e pectus excavatum em escolares do Distrito Federal. Brasília Médica vol. 39: 10-15.