What is pectus exavatum?
Pectus excavatum, colloquially known as funnel chest or sunken chest, is a medical condition in which the chest bone (sternum) is abnormally pushed inward, creating a deep, concave appearance. It is a structural deformity of the chest wall, usually present from birth (congenital) but may occasionally occur later in life. Pectus excavatum affects males more commonly than females, with a ratio of 4:1.
Symptoms
The symptoms of pectus excavatum can vary from person to person and may include:
* A deep, concave appearance of the chest
* Chest pain
* Shortness of breath, especially during exercise
* Wheezing or coughing
* Difficulty taking deep breaths
* Fatigue
* Anxiety or depression due to the cosmetic appearance of the condition
* In severe cases, pectus excavatum can also lead to heart and lung problems, such as displacement of the heart, impaired lung function, and exercise intolerance.
Treatment
The treatment options for pectus excavatum depend on the severity of the condition and the individual's symptoms. In mild cases, no treatment may be necessary. In more severe cases, treatment options may include:
* Observation: For mild cases, monitoring the condition over time may be all that is necessary.
* Physical therapy: Physical therapy may be recommended to improve posture, strengthen chest muscles, and increase flexibility.
* Bracing: A brace may be used to apply gentle pressure on the chest and gradually correct the deformity. Bracing is usually recommended for children and adolescents, as their bones are more flexible and responsive to treatment.
* Surgery: Surgery may be necessary for severe cases of pectus excavatum that do not respond to other treatments. The most common surgical procedure is the Nuss procedure, which involves inserting a metal bar behind the sternum to reshape the chest.
The treatment of pectus excavatum is individualized and should be discussed with a healthcare professional to determine the best course of action based on the individual's specific needs and circumstances.