angienc

Hi, (this will be in 2 parts due to spacial limits)

If the sternum protrudes out, it is pectus carinatum. If it protrudes in, it is pectus excavatum - which is the more common of the two. Either condition can also affect the appearance of the lower ribs. What most doctors won't tell you (most likely because they don't know) is that both of these conditions can also be related to heart defects with the primary one being mitral valve prolapse.

Don't settle for using the first surgeon to come along and be able to name the condition. Also, I don't think that you should necessarily allow them to perform surgery on your son. There may actually be a few options he can try before ending up with a bunch of nasty scars on his chest. Did anyone talk to you about the possibility of him using a brace instead of them using the knife? If not, you are not getting the full story.

Below I have posted several medical abstracts with information on bracing and the outcomes. I would not walk away from those who want to cut your son, I would run! Place surgery as a last option because there can be some nasty complications plus the large scars and make an appointment with one of the medical centers listed in these abstracts. If THEY know of someone closer to you that they trust to perform bracing on your son then you might consider a doctor closer to home. However, these medical centers have obviously invested themselves in studying these conditions and have had many patients with the same condition. Thus, if I were you, I would go with one of them instead of a different medical center.

Also, I took a little extra time and copied over some abstracts related to health conditions associated with this condition. The condition could also be caused by a specific syndrome like Noonan's Syndrome or it can simply occur on its own. In the general population, 30% have a chest wall defect but most just don't have it to the same degree as those with these conditions. Anyway, I hope you return to check this site for an answer and find the information I have posted because I hope it helps your son receive proper care. Oh, and you may want to forward this information over to the other doctors to explain why you left - after you have given them the heave ho because I can guarantee you that they already knew about the option of bracing but decided they preferred the bigger bucks were in surgery (and nicer cars and houses!). Of course that's just MY humble opinion...!

Best wishes to you and your son,

Angie