Chest Wall Surgery at Emory Healthcare

Expert Care to Restore and Protect Your Chest Wall

The chest wall is the vital framework of bone and muscle that protects your heart and lungs. If you’re facing a chest wall condition, Emory Healthcare thoracic surgeons offer advanced surgical and nonsurgical options to help you breathe easier and live better.

Why Choose Emory Healthcare for Chest Wall Surgery?

Expert surgeons: our team specializes in both open and minimally invasive chest wall surgeries, helping to reduce blood loss and speed up recovery.
Personalized treatment: we offer customized surgical planning, including 3D modeling and patient-specific implants for the best possible results.
Comprehensive care: from physical and occupational therapy to advanced wound care, we support you every step of the way.

Chest Wall Surgeries We Offer

Ravitch surgery for pectus excavatum (“concave chest” or “sunken chest”)
- Corrects the inward depression of the breastbone
- Expands the chest cavity and repositions the breastbone
- Custom titanium plates designed using 3D computer modeling for a perfect fit
- Benefits include shorter surgery times, less anesthesia and more precise correction
- Advanced pain control with cryoanalgesia (extreme cold) for up to 2–3 months of relief after surgery
Reconstructive surgery for pectus carinatum (“pigeon chest”)
- Pectus carinatum is when the breastbone and ribs push outward
- Most adults benefit from physical and occupational therapy
- Surgery is available for those who need it, with personalized evaluation and recommendations
Tumor resection and chest wall reconstruction
- Removal of chest wall tumors forming in the area that protects the heart and lungs
Rib and chest wall plating
- Stabilization of traumatic chest injuries with custom-fitted plates
- Plates are designed to match your rib’s natural curve and can be removed if needed
Surgical repair and reconstruction for chest wounds
- Most wounds heal without surgery, but surgical repair is available when needed for optimal recovery
Nonsurgical options
- Physical and occupational therapy
- Advanced wound care

About Emory Thoracic Surgery

The thoracic surgeons at Emory Healthcare offer the latest treatments for conditions affecting your airway, esophagus, lungs and chest wall. Our skilled experts perform innovative, minimally invasive procedures and partner with you to ensure you get the best treatment for your specific condition.

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