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. 2003 Jun;54(6):1107-10.
doi: 10.1097/01.TA.0000068992.01030.A8.

The positive predictive value of rib fractures as an indicator of nonaccidental trauma in children

Katherine A Barsness  1 , Eun-Suk Cha, Denis D Bensard, Casey M Calkins, David A Partrick, Frederick M Karrer, John D Strain
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The positive predictive value of rib fractures as an indicator of nonaccidental trauma in children

Katherine A Barsness et al. J Trauma. 2003 Jun.

Abstract

Background: Rib fractures have a strong association with nonaccidental trauma (NAT) and severe trauma. The purposes of this study were to evaluate rib fractures in children to determine (1) the positive predictive value of a rib fracture in defining NAT and (2) the frequency of rib fractures as the only skeletal manifestation of NAT.

Methods: We reviewed the medical records and imaging of all children with rib fractures over a 6-year period. NAT was determined by the Child Advocacy and Protection team.

Results: In children younger than 3 years of age, the positive predictive value (PPV) of a rib fracture as an indicator of NAT was 95%. The positive predictive value increased to 100% once historical and clinical circumstance excluded all other causes for rib fractures.

Conclusion: In this study, rib fracture(s) were the only skeletal manifestation of NAT in 29% of the children.

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