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Orthoses designed for external modification of the structural and/or functional characteristics of the anterior thoracic muscular and bone structures, providing immobilization and support or supplementing and/or augmenting the chest functions and/or structure. These orthoses typically consist of flexible or semi-rigid structures with elastic fabric bands and have appropriate physical characteristics (e.g., shape, consistency) to encircle the chest totally or at a particular area. Thoracic orthoses are typically made of fabrics, plastics, malleable metals or a combination of these. Dedicated prefabricated or, less frequently, custom-made orthoses intended for a particular region of the anterior chest (e.g., sternum, ribs) are available.
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