Mum praises 'game changing' treatment for teen's chest condition

A Renfrew teenager's life has been changed after getting access to a new non-surgical treatment for young people with a rare sunken chest condition.

- NICK FORBES & KIERAN WEBSTER

Ryan Dolan, 15, began receiving a new “vacuum bell” treatment 14 months ago after he was diagnosed with pectus excavatum - a condition that causes a person’s ribs and breastbone to grow inwards. This results in the front of the chest having a sunken appearance.

Some people are born with the condition, but for others, like Ryan, who was diagnosed at the age of 12, it can also appear following a growth spurt, typically between the ages of 11 and 14.

In severe cases, the condition can cause problems for the heart and lungs, but even less severe cases can have a negative impact on the “self-esteem and body confidence” of those living with it.

An alternative to surgery, the vacuum bell is a flexible silicone suction cup that attaches to the chest and connects to a portable pump.

It works by creating a gentle vacuum, with the suction bringing the breastbone forward.

Ryan’s mum, Liza Dolan, said having the option of the vacuum bell had been a “game-changer” for her son, as it meant he could avoid surgery.