According to information from Viet Duc Friendship Hospital, pectus excavatum is a condition characterized by abnormal development of the anterior chest wall, manifested by the abnormal growth of the sternum and ribs inward, causing the chest to be sunken.
This is the most common type of chest deformity, which can compress the heart and lungs, restrict physical activity, cause weakness, and affect the child's psychological development. The condition may be associated with spinal deformities and scoliosis, usually at a mild level.
Accordingly, this congenital condition appears from a young age, often without obvious signs, progresses over time, and is usually most apparent during puberty when bones are developing most rapidly.
The disease has a familial nature; siblings can both be affected, or father and son may also be affected.
The evidence suggests that most mild to moderate cases of the disease will not present with cardiopulmonary compression and will not cause any symptoms.
In more severe cases, common symptoms include: chest pain, persistent fatigue, shortness of breath, and rapid heartbeat.
When children are overly active, it can lead to limited physical activity, faster fatigue, and more difficulty breathing compared to their peers.
Being thin and malnourished, combined with sunken cheeks, results in poor aesthetics. This can have psychological effects such as low self-esteem, reluctance to interact with friends, and even social isolation.
The condition can progress gradually over time and worsen, causing symptoms. Associate Professor Dr. Nguyen Huu Uoc – Director of the Cardiovascular and Thoracic Center, Viet Duc Hospital, Hanoi – said: The current treatment method for congenital chest deformities is mainly surgery, with the best age for treatment usually between 7 and 15 years old. Older patients can still undergo surgery, but it is more difficult.
Surgical intervention is indicated if any of the following factors are present, indicating symptoms of cardiopulmonary tamponade: shortness of breath, chest pain, or limited physical activity.
Aesthetic factors: While pectus excavatum may not cause symptoms, it is aesthetically unappealing. Psychological factors: Children may feel insecure and shy about interacting with others.
The Haller index on computed tomography (CT) scans assesses the severity of chest deformity. Minimally invasive surgery with endoscopy-assisted placement of a chest lift is safe and effective. Patients are usually stable and discharged on the 5th day post-surgery.
Post-operative prevention, monitoring, and rehabilitation are crucial for achieving effective treatment outcomes and improving patients' quality of life and physical activity.
Patients who are underweight usually gain 3-5 kg after surgery. Normal activities can be resumed after one month, and physical activity and sports training can begin 3-6 months after surgery.
Vigorous physical activity is usually resumed one year after surgery. The chest brace is removed after 2 to 3 years, depending on the patient's age.
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