Question
My baby was diagnosed with pectus carinatum one month after birth. The main symptoms include a sunken chest, protruding abdomen, less flexibility in the left hand compared to the right, and a outward deviation of the left foot when walking. I would like to inquire about the best treatment for pectus carinatum.
Answer
Generally, we recommend surgical treatment for pectus carinatum before the age of school. However, not all patients require surgery. In cases where the depression is mild, there is no compression of heart and lung function, and the patient does not have a strong desire for surgery, observation without surgery can be considered. In severe cases, surgical treatment is recommended. Whether surgery is required depends on the severity of pectus carinatum, which is usually determined by evaluating the depth, width, and length of the most depressed area, as well as the length, width, and thickness of the chest wall. If the index exceeds 0.2, surgery is recommended; or if heart and lung function are compressed, affecting circulation and respiratory system, surgery should be performed.