[Surgical indications of funnel chest]

Pathological findings in ECG represent indications for operation only if they are accompanied by subjective complaints and psychogenic problems. The extent of the abnormality usually does not correlate with the patient's complaints. Disappearance of such complaints after surgery does not be considered as a sign of successful surgery. Even a deep funnel chest is not necessarily an indication for operation if the patient has no complaints and can manage the situation. A flat funnel chest should not be operated on. The operation can be performed in patients between 4 and 24 years of age. If severe associated anomalies require operation as well, the choice is not for correction of the funnel chest first.