Conversation: The conversation between human and AI assistant.
[|Human|] I have a sunken chest cavity which I have had all my life I am 70. My grandson inherited this defect and worries about it he is 16. A schoolmate of his had this corrected and he talks about doing this someday. I never felt my situation hindered any sports etc but he is afraid to get into any physical sports like basketball etc for fear of injury?Is there some way of evaluating if this deformity is limiting him?
[|AI|]  Thank you for your queryPectus Excavated (sunken chest) varies in degree (mild to severe). This is a defect in the development of the anterior ribs and sternum (breastbone). The heart and lungs are adjacent structures and depending on the degree of the defect, they may or may not be significantly compromised. Reduced lung capacity, Cardiac wall and valve defects can be diagnosed by appropriate tests. Initially, the severity of the defect must be assessed. A series of tests (ECG, CT scan of the chest, Echocardiogram will show mechanical/conductive defects of the heart; pulmonary function tests, treadmill test(stress/exercise test) will show the functional defects of the lung/heart.) Based on these, his age and overall health, a treatment plan will be made. If it is mild and without any compromise in lung and heart function, the concern is mainly of a cosmetic one. Normal physical activity can be continued. Corrective surgery is optional it is causing severe retardation in his overall endurance, a corrective surgery may help. There are different types of procedures all of which are associated with certain risks. This should be discussed with his doctor before making a decision and if the benefits outweigh the risks, the surgery carried out has excellent prognosis once he is on the road to recovery. Hope this helps. Please contact us if you have further questions. Wish you both good health