Technology Assessment
Speciality
Output Type
Expected
Technology Assessment
Speciality
Output Type
Expected
What were we asked to look at?
We have been asked to evaluate the use of the vacuum bell device for people with a pectus excavatum (funnel chest). In addition to assessing the clinical effectiveness, cost effectiveness and patient issues, we have been asked to consider other factors such as, what the optimal wear time is, whether the effectiveness varies depending on the severity of the pectus excavatum, and the optimal age for treatment.
Why is this important?
Pectus excavatum normally occurs in young people following a growth spurt (typically between ages 11 and 14 years). It is a condition where the front of the chest is sunken, and it is caused by an abnormal growth of the cartilage ribs that attach to the breast bone. In mild cases, there are no negative effects on physical health. In more severe cases, it may have an affect on heart and lung function. For some people, the physical appearance of a chest wall difference can impact on their quality of life and mental wellbeing. Pectus excavatum occurs in approximately 1% of people in the UK, and boys are affected four times as often as girls.
This topic was referred to us by the Scottish National Chest Wall service, which offers treatment to children and young people (aged 0 to 16 years) across Scotland. Management of pectus excavatum has historically been surgical, however the Vacuum Bell device has increasingly been offered as an alternative conservative management treatment option. There is a need to determine the clinical and cost effectiveness of the Vacuum Bell device to shape the Scottish Chest Wall Service for the future, with a possible increase in conservative management over surgical intervention.
Referred by
Scottish National Chest Wall Service