16-Year-Old Adolescent Pectus Excavatum Case: Before and After Vacuum Bell Treatment

Case Background

Pectus Excavatum in late adolescence is characterized by a sunken sternum and inward depression of the anterior chest wall.

At age 16, chest wall structures are approaching skeletal maturity, and the flexibility of the costal cartilage is significantly reduced compared to younger patients.

This case documents the chest wall appearance of a 16-year-old adolescent before treatment and after 9 months of Vacuum Bell therapy.

Initial Evaluation

Age

16 years old

Initial Assessment Date

December 2022

Main Findings

• Pronounced central sternal depression

• Uneven anterior chest wall contour

• Typical pectus excavatum appearance

• Near-mature chest wall structure

Characteristics of Late Adolescent Pectus Excavatum

At age 16, chest wall characteristics typically include:

• Reduced cartilage flexibility

• More rigid chest wall structure

• Stabilized deformity pattern

• Slower response to non-surgical management

Treatment Method

Treatment

Vacuum Bell Therapy

Approach

Non-surgical chest wall management

Goals

• Improve chest appearance

• Reduce visible depression

• Improve chest symmetry

• Enhance chest wall contour stability

Before Treatment

Clinical Observation

A clear sternal depression was observed, consistent with pectus excavatum.

The chest wall appeared more rigid and structurally defined.

After 9 Months

Clinical Observation

Compared with baseline:

• Changes in chest wall appearance were observed

• Reduction in visible depression was noted

• Improved anterior chest contour

• Better chest symmetry

Clinical Observation Summary

Based on image comparison:

Sternal Area

Changes in chest wall appearance were observed.

Chest Wall Contour

The anterior chest wall appeared smoother.

Chest Appearance

The chest contour appeared more natural.

Symmetry

Improved balance between both sides of the chest.

Importance of Late Adolescent Chest Wall Management

At age 16, chest wall structures are close to skeletal maturity.

Therefore:

• Changes may occur more gradually

• Consistency in treatment is critical

• Detailed structural evaluation is required

However, some patients may still observe visible changes.

FAQ

Is Vacuum Bell effective at age 16?

Effectiveness depends on chest wall flexibility and severity.

Is there still improvement potential at late adolescence?

Some patients may still experience visible changes, although typically slower than younger cases.

Is surgery required at this stage?

Decision should be based on imaging, symptoms, and clinical evaluation.

Important Notice

This case is provided for educational purposes only.

Individual outcomes vary depending on anatomy, growth patterns, and treatment response.

Interested in Learning Whether Vacuum Bell Therapy May Be Suitable for Late Adolescents?

EMK Yikang Medical provides:

✓ Professional Chest Wall Evaluation
✓ CT Imaging Analysis
✓ 3D Chest Wall Reconstruction
✓ Customized Design Based on CT or 3D Modeling
✓ Long-Term Follow-Up Support

Contact our team for a personalized assessment.