Zayden saw the Thoracic Surgeon to discuss the thoracic wall anomaly that had caused great concern. I had noticed that the right side of Zayden's rib cage wasn't "normal.' I pointed it out to each of his doctors, but was reassured it was fine. That was until his orthopedic doctor saw him and agreed it was something that needed to be checked by yet another specialist. Fast forward 8 days, and our appointment with the Thoracic surgeon. He examined Zayden and Zayden's X-rays. The diagnosis given was Pectus carinatum Chondrogladiolar.
What is pectus carinatum Chondrogladiolar, you ask? Pectus carinatum is a condition in which your sternum (breastbone) sticks out more than usual. Some people call it “pigeon chest” or “keel chest” because of how it makes your chest look. It’s the opposite of pectus excavatum, in which your breastbone is depressed inward and gives your chest a sunken appearance.
The thoracic surgeon took the time to explain that this condition is more of a cosmetic issue than a health issue. He stated this condition actually gives more protection to the heart, liver, and right lung because of the bowing outward of the ribs. He said that he was not worried about any medical complications for Zayden, and unless there were changes, Zayden didn't need to be seen for this again until his prepuberty years, around 12 years old. Until the time the doctor stated all of this, I hadn't realized how much concern and worry I had been bottling up. I can't truly express the relief I felt.
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