Pectus Excavatum
Pectus Excavatum is a condition where the wall of the chest is sunken in shape and the rib cage is more prominent. Pectus Excavatum can be present from birth or can develop through growth spurts normally related to puberty. Chest and back pain is the most common related symptom associated with Pectus Excavatum, however the physiological impact can often be more significant.
What causes Pectus Excavatum?
There is no known cause for Pectus Excavatum however the sunken shape is caused by abnormal growth of the bones and cartilage in the chest wall. It is common for the sunken chest to become more apparent during the growth spurts of puberty.
What are the symptoms of Pectus Excavatum?
The symptoms related to Pectus Excavatum can vary. The severity of symptoms normally coincide with the amount of deformation of the chest wall.
Common symptoms include:
- Chest and back pains are common during growth spurts and can also be related to poor resulting posture
- Feeling breathless after exercise
Less common symptoms are:
- Feeling faint after exercise
- Respiratory complications
- Heart Palpitations
Psychological Impact:
As the sunken shape is often most noticeable during puberty, this can lead to individuals developing anxiety, low self esteem and becoming self conscious. Often, improving the appearance of the sunken chest wall is the primary reason for treatment.
What treatment options do Liverpool Orthotics provide for Pectus Excavatum?
Liverpool Orthotics provide Vacuum Bell therapy for the treatment of Pectus Excavatum. The vacuum bell is a silicon vacuum which is placed over the chest wall deformity. The air is then pumped out of the vacuum with a hand held pump and this causes the flexible chest wall to raise up. Over time this process helps to remould the cartilage and reduces the deformity.
The treatment involves a very gradual breaking in process and the amount of time the Vacuum bell is worn and the length of treatment depends on a number of factors including:
- Size of sunken deformity
- Asymmetry between the right and left side of the chest wall
- Age
- Chest wall flexibility
- Compliance
What is the process to receiving Pectus Vacuum Bell therapy?
The first step is to arrange an initial consultation with our specialist orthotist. The orthotist will ensure the Vacuum Bell is a suitable treatment option.
If the treatment is suitable the orthotist will then take a series of measurements, 3D scans and photographs.The scans and photographs are a good way to track the amount of progress for both the orthotist and the patient. Once the correct size of Pectus bell has been established it will be ordered and a suitable fitting appointment made. The orthotist will then demonstrate a series of daily exercises which compliment the Vacuum Bell therapy.
At the fitting appointment the orthotist will give specific advice on how to fit the Vacuum Bell, how much pressure to allow in the vacuum and the time frames for building up wear time. The wear time will depend on a number of factors but is normally between 1 - 3 hours a day.
A series of review appointments will then be made to ensure the treatment is successful and to update the 3D scan and photographic imagery.
To arrange an appointment call Liverpool Orthotics now on 0330 088 3949, or email us at office@liverpool-orthotics.co.uk