(The above x-ray does not belong to me, it is thanks to this source.)
I was born with the deformity known as pectus excavatum. My ribs and sternum grew abnormally, and made my chest appear as if it was caving or sunken in. It is not particularly rare, as one in a thousand people may have it, though I have learned through my experience that many doctors are not aware of it or do not know much about it. I want to raise awareness of this condition because depending on the severity of the case, it can be deadly.
Thankfully, pectus excavatum can be fixed with a surgery called the Nuss procedure. In the x-ray above, a patient is shown with the metal bar/brace used in the procedure.
If you are at all suspicious that you or someone you know has the deformity, do some research and ask a doctor about it because it is better to be safe than sorry. (I will warn you now that Google images is not exactly pretty.)
I would also like to share my story about my experience with the deformity and the correction surgery. If you’re willing to read it, click the read more.
