Pectus Excavatum
Pectus excavatum is a condition in which a person's breastbone is sunken into their chest. The chest bows inward instead of outward. In severe cases, pectus excavatum can look as if the center of the chest has been scooped out, leaving a deep dent.
The sunken breastbone is often noticeable shortly after birth, but it usually worsens during the adolescent growth spurt. Source
Pectus Affects Approximately 1 In Every 400 Newborns Worldwide
People With Pectus May Have
1
Exercise Intolerance
2
Shortness of Breath
3
Chest Pain or Pressure
4
Palpitations or Tachycardia
5
Dizziness
6
Restricted Breathing
7
Body Dysmorphia
How Pectus Is Measured
Using The Haller Index
The Haller Index is measured at the deepest point of the defect. It's calculated by the width, from side to side (yellow line) divided by the height which is considered the distance between the sternum and the spine (red line).
For the accuracy of pectus excavatum measurements, a CT scan is needed on inspiration and expiration.
The Haller Index shown here is a 4.28
Pectus Excavatum Comes
In All Shapes and Sizes
How Dr. J Determines
If She Recommends Pectus Surgery
Fixing your pectus requires scheduling the initial appointment, undergoing the requisite testing in Arizona, then coming back for your surgery at a later date. Dr. J uses the following tests to determine the severity of each pectus case, before making a recommendation: ~ CT Scan ~ EKG ~ Echocardiogram ~ Pulmonary Function Test ~ EVO2 Test Positive indications for pectus surgery include; ~ CT Scan with Haller Index of 3.25 or greater ~ Cardiac compression or shift ~ Abnormal cardiopulmonary tests
Dr. J's office is usually booked out months in advance.
The best things in life are worth the wait