Table of Contents
- 1 Can mild pectus excavatum cause breathing problems?
- 2 How can I breathe better with pectus excavatum?
- 3 Is pectus carinatum surgery risky?
- 4 How long does it take to recover from pectus carinatum surgery?
- 5 What are the most common symptoms of pectus carinatum?
- 6 How does a pectus deformity affect a child’s life?
Can mild pectus excavatum cause breathing problems?
Pectus excavatum (PE) is a condition where the breastbone in the chest is sunken inward, causing breathing difficulties and in rare cases mild cardiac issues.
How can I breathe better with pectus excavatum?
Step 1: Stand up straight, with your shoulders pushed back. Step 2: Breathe in as deeply as possible, pulling your shoulders back as you inhale. Step 3: Hold your breath for as long as possible. Repeat 20 times.
Can pectus carinatum go away?
Pectus carinatum is a long-term condition that will not go away on its own. By itself, pectus carinatum is not dangerous. It does not cause any symptoms other than the abnormal appearance of the chest, and having it will not make you sick or shorten your lifespan.
Is pectus carinatum surgery risky?
The surgical repair of pectus carinatum, like other extensive surgeries, carries certain risks. While the Ravitch procedure is also safe and effective, complications can occur, including: Pneumothorax (a buildup of air or gas in the pleural space around the lung) Bleeding.
How long does it take to recover from pectus carinatum surgery?
Most patients take pain medications for the first 2-4 weeks. Usually it takes a month or two to fully recover and resume normal activities. Your surgeon can advise as to what activities are allowed.
Does pectus excavatum cause problems later in life?
Scientific studies and experienced doctors confirm pectus excavatum can cause problems later in life. It is known that the deformity can hinder the functioning of the heart and lungs. If the condition is severe, it can displace, and even rotate the heart.
What are the most common symptoms of pectus carinatum?
The most common symptoms are related to body image. There are two types of pectus carinatum: chondrogladiolar prominence (CG) and chondromanubrial prominence (CM). Most people with this condition have chondrogladiolar prominence pectus carinatum. CM is rarer and more difficult to treat.
How does a pectus deformity affect a child’s life?
It is important to note that having a pectus deformity can affect all areas of life. In patients aged over 11 with funnel chest, Einsiedel and Clausner (1999) found a high degree of self-observation, motivational problems, anxiety regarding social contact, depression and a poor opinion of their own appearance.
Does pectoralis excavatum shorten lifespan?
The study concluded that pectoralis excavatum can become significant as you get older, and will shorten lifespan. A 2005 medical investigation was done to determine whether congenital pectus excavatum decreases lifespan.