Pectus excavatum: the effect of tricuspid valve compression on cardiac function

Pectus excavatum (PE) is a common congenital chest wall deformity with various associated health concerns, including psychosocial impacts, academic challenges, and potential cardiopulmonary effects. This study aimed to investigate the cardiac consequences of right atrioventricular groove compression in PE using cardiac magnetic resonance imaging. A retrospective analysis was conducted on 661 patients with PE referred for evaluation. Patients were categorized into three groups based on the degree of right atrioventricular groove compression (no compression (NC), partial compression (PC), and complete compression(CC)). Chest wall indices were measured: pectus index (PI), depression index (DI), correction index (CI), and sternal torsion. The study revealed significant differences in chest wall indices between the groups: PE, NC=4.15 ± 0.94, PC=4.93 ± 1.24, and CC=7.2 ± 4.01 (P<0.0001). Left ventricle ejection fraction (LVEF) showed no significant differences: LVEF, NC=58.72