Pectus Carinatum

We learned a couple new words this year - Pectus Carinatum.

Noticing a small bump on his chest, we took Dakota to see the pediatrician.  The pediatrician proceeded to scare the bejeezus out of us after conducting an exam, taking an x-ray of Dakota's chest and then wanting to do an MRI without having an idea what was wrong.  Not satisfied, we returned to the doctor's office and asked to see our doctor, Dr. Marvin Zaguli, who has been Dakota's pediatrician since he was born.

Mr. Joe position Dakota.

Dr. Zaguli didn't even need to examine Dakota before knowing exactly what the issue was - pectus carinatum.  He put us at ease as he referred us to the one specialist in San Diego, who then took his time explaining to what it was and how it was treated.  He then put us in touch with Mr. Joe.

Picture for his file (the before set).

Mr. Joe is a saint of a man who has dedicated his life to helping boys, like our son, who have pectus carinatum, by making specially made flaring rib braces for them to wear.  These braces correct the growth of the cartilage which then helps shape the ribs correctly.

Having his chest re-set.

Dakota's first appointment with Mr. Joe was through Skype since Mr. Joe lives in the northeast.  We then went to see him at the end of July for his initial consult and measurements.  His next visit will be in the beginning of October where Mr. Joe will reposition his chest and give Dakota his brace.  We are so blessed that the "little bump" turned out to be pectus carinatum versus something more serious.

Measurements taken for his custom made brace.