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Chest malformations such as the keel chest or funnel chest are relatively common and can vary in severity. Boys are more frequently affected than girls.
While some patients show no symptoms, others report shortness of breath on exertion, reduced performance during sport or social withdrawal. Those affected often avoid places such as public showers or bathing establishments.
While thoracic malformations are sometimes already visible in infancy, the full extent of the malformation typically becomes apparent during the growth spurt in puberty.
The treatment depends on various factors: the extent of the malformation, the severity of the symptoms, the individual's desire for treatment and the willingness to participate in therapy.
Depending on the situation, the following options may be possible:
The UKBB is one of the few centres that offer both conservative and surgical procedures for funnel chest and keel chest. The procedures are usually minimally invasive (keyhole technique), resulting in barely visible scars later on. The paediatric surgery team at the UKBB is internationally networked and works according to the latest standards.
Only the surgical treatment of thoracic malformations requires hospitalisation, which usually lasts around five days.
The prognosis, even for the most severe malformations, is generally excellent following surgical treatment. Immediately after the operation, the contour of the chest is completely normalised and patients are very satisfied with the result in most cases. Survey studies conducted at UKBB confirm this positive development and show that almost all patients who have undergone surgery would opt for surgery again.
The prognosis after suction cup therapy for funnel chest varies depending on the individual case. If this therapy does not bring the desired success, there is always the option of surgical treatment.
058 387 78 82 (Costs are settled via the health insurance company)
In the event of an emergency abroad, call the emergency number of your health insurance company. You will find the contact details on your health insurance card.
145 (Poison and Information Centre)
University Children's Hospital of both
Basel, Spitalstrasse 33
4056 Basel | CH
Phone +41 61 704 12 12
© UKBB, 2025
The Medgate Kids Line provides quick and uncomplicated medical advice if your child is unwell. The medical team of our partner Medgate is available to you by telephone around the clock.
For emergencies abroad: Call the emergency number of your health insurance company. You will find this number on your health insurance card.
More information: On the Page of the emergency ward you will find everything you need to know about behaviour in emergencies, typical childhood illnesses and waiting times.
144 Outpatient clinic
145 Tox Info Suisse (Poisonings)
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