What is a mild case of pectus excavatum?

Key Takeaways. Pectus excavatum is a chest deformity where the breastbone (sternum) appears sunken. Children with mild pectus excavatum often have no other symptoms, but more severe cases can affect the heart and lungs. The sunken chest can be fixed with surgeries like the Nuss procedure or Ravitch procedure.

Can mild pectus excavatum get worse?

For many people with pectus excavatum, the only sign or symptom is a slight indentation in their chests. In some people, the depth of the indentation worsens in early adolescence and can continue to worsen into adulthood.

Is pectus excavatum a disability?

Pectus excavatum is not a “disability” for VA compensation purposes. 38 C.F.R. §§ 3.303(c), 4.9. Congenital or developmental defects may not be service-connected because they are not diseases or injuries under the law.

Can you live a normal life with pectus excavatum?

Pectus excavatum (funnel chest) is when your child’s breastbone is pressed inwards and they have a dip between their ribs. The deformity may be symmetrical (the same on both sides) or may be more prominent on one side of the chest. Some children with funnel chest will live a normal life.

Does pectus excavatum shorten life span?

There is no evidence that pectus excavatum limits life expectancy or causes progressive damage to the heart and lungs over time.

At what age does pectus excavatum occur?

Pectus excavatum may not be noticeable at birth. By the age of two or three years, however, it is apparent. It can get worse during childhood and puberty.

What age can you treat pectus excavatum?

Background: The ideal time to operate on pectus excavatum (PE) using the Nuss procedure (NP) is between 12 and 18 years of age, because it is more difficult to bend the sternum of older patients and they have more pain and complications.

Is it safe to exercise with pectus excavatum?

Pectus excavatum symptoms may include shortness of breath and lower stamina during exercise, fatigue, chest pain, and a fast heartbeat. Because of these problems with fatigue and stamina, it is best to start exercising slowly and gradually increase your activity.

How effective is exercise for pectus excavatum?

Although exercise is successful in some cases, it is not as effective as a surgical correction. There is also no guarantee that it will be effective. You can read more about exercise for pectus excavatum in our guide Pectus excavatum exercise: the natural alternative to surgery for some patients.

Does pectus excavatum affect more boys or girls?

The condition affects more boys than girls. It is often present at birth but becomes more noticeable during times of rapid growth, such as puberty. Pectus excavatum can range from mild to severe. Those with a mild condition often do not have symptoms.

How do I know if I have pectus excavatum?

If you notice a small dent in your chest, however, don’t have any physical symptoms, you likely have a mild case of pectus excavatum. A normal chest has a Haller index of 2 or less. A Haller index between 2 and 3.2 is considered a mild deformity; between 3.2 and 3.5, moderate.; 3.5 or greater, a severe deformity (source).

Is pectus excavatum surgery right for my child?

Learn what to expect during pectus excavatum surgery » If your child is a surgical candidate and has twisting (torsion) of the chest, the Ravitch procedure may be a better option. Although surgery may be recommended for your child, the decision to move forward with the procedure is up to your child and family.