Hello, I have been involved in a car accident where I incurred a seat belt burn and pain and bruising in the sternal area. The air bag was deployed and I felt a burning sensation and temporary shortness of breath. I was hospitalized and have made quite a good recovery, but I am concerned about a lump in the area where the seat belt injured me. What is the likely problem with this lump? It seems to be getting smaller each day, but I am still concerned.
Yes, your concern is very true. Sternal area is known for keloid formation. Your lump seems like a keloid. In my clinic, once diagnosis is confirmed, I give intraluminal steroid injection i.e. in in the lesion. This in may have to be repeated quite a few times depending on response. But you haven't mentioned whether the lump is hard or soft, as a keloid is dense scar tissue i.e. firm to hard. Hope this information is useful for you. Thanks. Regards.