PLEASE 20 month old with PECTUS EXCAVATUM!!

[blair4385]

PLEASE! All doctors read this! I have a 20 month old son with Pectus Excavatum. I am seriously worried about my baby. For one thing I took him over a year ago and expressed my concerned about his chest moving inward when he would inhale. I was told that this is normal and he would grow out of it. So a couple of months ago I told them he has not grown out of it and his chest is sucken in and in moves inward when he inhales. They diagnosed him with Pectus Excavatum. Here is my concern, every patient with this deformity doesnt have the movement of the chest/sternum like he does. The only thing they did with him were x-rays. Nothing more. Im not satisfied with this and Im worried for his life, everyday I pray that God will keep my child safe. Please I need a doctor to give me some advice here. Im stressing out! Is his chest moving inward a big cause for concern?? They said the x-rays shows it isnt putting pressure on his heart or lungs, but how can they know that his heart isnt in distress without proper test....I really need some help here, Im begging any medical professional that has answers to please help me with this!

[ireneo]

You're quite welcome. As he grows up, don't be afraid to ask his doctor about it now and then. It's a good idea to keep an eye on it but the surgical alternative to repair it is quite unpleasant.

[blair4385]

Thank you for advice! I do greatly appreciate it more than you know

[ireneo]

Each case is different and no doubt his pediatrician will monitor it as he grows.

I have a husband that is 60 years old and has pectus excavatum. Pretty severe since not only is his chest sunken but he also has pretty severe lordosis (outward curvature of the spine) and some scoliosis. Yet he's at the gym right now working out. He loves to hike, run and walk for miles on end. His heart and BP are in excellent shape. I just want to encourage you that a chest deformity doesn't necessarily mean your little boy will be handicapped for life. For many people it's more a matter of appearance that is embarrassing.