Pediatria pre prax 5/2022

Psychosocial aspects in patients with pectus excavatum

Objectives: Pectus excavatum is the most common deformity of the anterior chest wall. Although the negative psychosocial factors associated with them are known, the studies are not yet available in large numbers. The aim of the presented study is a comprehensive analysis of the internal experience of patients with this diagnosis, their psychological and physical state and the patient’s subjective view of the effect of surgical intervention. Materials and methods: In the period of 2014–2020, 51 patients with pectus excavatum underwent a minimally invasive surgery at the Department of Paediatric Surgery of the National Institute of Paediatric Diseases in Bratislava. These patients were approached using the Google Forms platform, in which one questionnaire was created, and then sent by an e-mail with the option of an anonymous filling. Results: 36 patients with pectus excavatum answered the questionnaire. In addition to dyspnea and pain before the surgery and postoperatively (nearly 50 % of patients), the assumptions were confirmed that the patients with these diseases have a harder time experiencing not only the perception of their appearance and the problems resulting from being different, but also the limitation of inclusion in social activities and groups due to the ridicule of their surroundings and shyness (almost 50 % of patients). Most of the patients are satisfied with the treatment and the resulting effect, not only for the final appearance of the chest wall, but also for the overall improvement of psychological and physical difficulties, and ultimately the quality of life itself. Conclusions: In addition to health problems, patients with deformities of the front chest wall often face several psychological problems, which is significantly improved by surgical correction during the formation of their personality. A comprehensive view of the patient with all aspects of their discomfort and correctly indicated treatment can improve their psychological and physical problems

Keywords: pectus excavatum, psychosocial aspect, body image, questionnaire survey, quality of life