Rib fixation for severe chest deformity due to multiple rib fractures
Hitoshi Igai1, Mitsuhiro Kamiyoshihara, Toshiteru Nagashima
1Department of General Thoracic Surgery, Maebashi Red Cross Hospital, Maebashi, Gunma, Japan. hitoshi-iga@hotmail.co.jp
Summary
Surgical repair of severe chest wall deformities from multiple rib fractures can successfully reconstruct the collapsed chest. This rib fixation procedure offers a solution for patients at risk of pulmonary impairment or chronic pain.
Area of Science:
- Thoracic surgery
- Orthopedic surgery
- Trauma surgery
Background:
- Operative indications for rib fracture repair remain debated.
- Previous reports suggest flail chest, respiratory pain, and chest deformity as indications.
- Severe chest wall deformity can lead to pulmonary complications and chronic pain.
Observation:
- A 70-year-old female patient sustained multiple right-sided rib fractures (2nd-7th) from an accident.
- She presented with a marked chest wall deformity and collapse, but no flail chest.
- The deformity posed a risk for future restrictive pulmonary function or chronic pain.
Findings:
- Surgical rib fixation was performed 11 days post-injury.
- Operative findings included significant displacement of ribs 2-5 and inward collapse of the chest wall.
- Rib staplers were used for fixation, successfully reconstructing the chest wall defect.
Implications:
- Rib fracture repair can effectively address severe chest wall deformities.
- Surgical intervention may prevent long-term pulmonary dysfunction and chronic pain.
- This case highlights successful rib fixation for non-flail chest wall collapse.
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Assessment:
1. Clinical Evaluation:
History:
Assessment:
1. Clinical Evaluation:
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01:24Flail Chest-I
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