1 . Funnel chest deformity is a common cause of progressive postural defects in children.

2. The underlying pathology of the funnel chest is a congenital deficiency of the muscle fibres of the anterior part of the diaphragm which allows the stronger posterior element to pull backwards the xiphoid and sternum. The postural changes are secondary to the chest deformity.

3. Operative correction of the chest deformity is described.

4. Post-operative physiotherapy is essential to correct the postural deformities. Patients must remain under orthopaedic supervision to maintain the correction obtained.

5. A series of twelve children treated by operation is reported, with excellent results in all.