Clinical and radiological study of sternal fractures in pediatrics

K Moënne Bühlmann1, D Araneda Castiglioni2, X Ortega Flores1

  • 1Radiólogo Pediatra, Clínica Las Condes, Santiago de Chile, Chile.

Radiologia
|February 28, 2019
PubMed

Insights

Pediatric sternal fractures are uncommon and typically result from low-energy trauma, not high-impact injuries. Associated lesions are rare in children with these types of sternal fractures.

Area of Science:

  • Pediatric Traumatology
  • Orthopedic Surgery
  • Radiology

Background:

  • Sternal fractures are historically considered rare in pediatric populations.
  • They are often associated with high-energy trauma and potential associated injuries.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To characterize the clinical and imaging findings of sternal fractures in patients under 18.
  • To evaluate the typical mechanisms and associated injuries in pediatric sternal fractures.

Main Methods:

  • Retrospective review of 79 pediatric patients.
  • Diagnosis of sternal fractures confirmed after a traumatic event.

Main Results:

  • 92.4% of sternal fractures resulted from low-energy trauma.
  • Only 3 (4%) of patients presented with associated lesions.

Conclusions:

  • Pediatric sternal fractures are frequently caused by low-energy trauma.
  • Associated injuries are uncommon in pediatric sternal fractures.

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