Question
Can pediatric pectus excavatum be treated if it is found to have soft bones?
Answer
It is important to pay attention to the severity of the chest deformity in children with pectus excavatum and whether there are symptoms of hypocalcemia. If the chest deformity is not too severe, temporary treatment with calcium digestion and nutritional enhancement can be provided. If the indentation is severe, further examination and possibly surgery may be needed. It could be caused by hypocalcemia. Carbonate calcium can be chosen to ensure rest and deep sleep. Pay attention to diet and supplement with high-calcium foods such as milk, shrimp shells, soy products, seafood, and fish powder. The first consideration for soft bones is rickets, which may be related to hypocalcemia, but it does not exclude the possibility of skeletal fibrosis. It is necessary to have a thorough examination at the hospital in a timely manner and bring the baby outdoors for appropriate sun exposure to facilitate calcium absorption. With time, symptoms will gradually stabilize.