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

Case Background

Pectus Excavatum in late adolescence often persists into near-adulthood, characterized by a sunken sternum and inward chest wall deformity.

At age 17, the chest wall is approaching skeletal maturity, and cartilage flexibility is significantly reduced compared to younger patients.

This case documents the chest wall appearance of a 17-year-old adolescent before treatment and after 7 months of Vacuum Bell therapy.

Initial Evaluation

Age

17 years old

Initial Assessment Date

July 2024

Main Findings

• Pronounced central sternal depression

• Uneven anterior chest wall contour

• Visible pectus excavatum deformity

• Near-mature chest wall structure

Characteristics of Near-Adult Pectus Excavatum

At age 17:

• Chest wall is nearly fully developed

• Reduced cartilage flexibility

• More fixed deformity pattern

• Slower response to non-surgical treatment

Treatment Method

Treatment

Vacuum Bell Therapy

Approach

Non-surgical chest wall management

Goals

• Improve chest appearance

• Reduce visible depression

• Improve chest symmetry

• Support chest wall contour optimization

Before Treatment

Clinical Observation

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

The chest wall structure appeared more rigid and mature.

After 7 Months

Clinical Observation

Compared with baseline:

• Changes in chest wall appearance were observed

• Reduction in visible depression

• Improved anterior chest contour

• Better chest symmetry

Clinical Observation Summary

Based on image comparison:

Sternal Area

Visible changes in chest wall contour 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 Management

At age 17:

• Chest wall is near full maturity

• Treatment response may be slower

• Consistency is critical

• Structural evaluation becomes essential

FAQ

Can Vacuum Bell still work at age 17?

It may still be effective depending on chest wall flexibility and severity.

Can changes still occur at near adulthood?

Some patients may still show visible improvements, but usually slower.

Is surgery always required at this stage?

Not always. Evaluation should be based on imaging and clinical findings.

Important Notice

This case is provided for educational purposes only.

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

Interested in Vacuum Bell Treatment for Near-Adult Patients?

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.