Historic overview of treatment techniques for rib fractures and flail chest
Introduction:
From the beginning of the twentieth century till the current time, an overview is presented of the surgical treatment for rib fractures and flail chest.
Methods:
Many techniques have been used to stabilize the thorax wall. There has been no follow-up for the most described techniques and the evidence provided is at its best at L3-4. This, together with the noninvasiveness of mechanical ventilation, has made the latter the golden standard.
Conclusion:
However, the recent introduction of better and fully dedicated materials provides the possibility of exploring the surgical treatment of chest injuries. The authors make a case for operative treatment of rib fractures and flail chest.
Related Concept Videos
Flail Chest-II
Assessment:
1. Clinical Evaluation:
History:
Flail Chest-I
Flail chest is a severe and potentially life-threatening condition characterized by the fracture of three or more adjacent ribs in multiple places. It is most commonly caused by direct impacts and trauma, such as motor vehicle accidents or injuries from a steering wheel impact. It can also occur due to falls in elderly individuals with osteoporosis, or assaults involving sharp objects.
Pathophysiology
The pathophysiology of flail chest is complex, involving fractures of...
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