Skip to main page content
U.S. flag

An official website of the United States government

Dot gov

The .gov means it’s official.
Federal government websites often end in .gov or .mil. Before sharing sensitive information, make sure you’re on a federal government site.

Https

The site is secure.
The https:// ensures that you are connecting to the official website and that any information you provide is encrypted and transmitted securely.

Access keys NCBI Homepage MyNCBI Homepage Main Content Main Navigation
Review
. 2022 Apr 1;35(2):172-175.
doi: 10.1097/ACO.0000000000001095.

Surgical rib fixation in traumatic rib fractures: is it warranted?

Andrew R Doben  1 , Sebastian D Schubl  2 , Roman Dudaryk  3
Affiliations
Review

Surgical rib fixation in traumatic rib fractures: is it warranted?

Andrew R Doben et al. Curr Opin Anaesthesiol. .

Abstract

Purpose of review: Traumatic chest wall injuries and rib fractures remain a prevalent injury. Despite many advances, these injuries result in high morbidity and mortality. Surgical stabilization of rib fractures (SSRF) is increasing in utilization with expanding indications. Recent studies have demonstrated that many patients may benefit from surgical intervention.

Recent findings: Over the past 20 years the indications and timing of SSRF has evolved. Once reserved mainly for the most extreme of injuries, expanding indications demonstrate that even minimally injured patients may benefit from intervention regarding pain control, respiratory complications, and overall mortality.

Summary: SSRF has become more prevalent with improving outcomes for patients. Understanding the indications will help expand utilization and improve patient outcomes.

PubMed Disclaimer

References

    1. deMoya M, Nirula R, Biffl W. Rib fixation: who, what, when? Trauma Surg Acute Care Open 2017; 2:e000059.
    1. Bulger EM, Arneson MA, Mock CN, Jurkovich GJ. Rib fractures in the eldery. J Trauma 2000; 48:1040–1046.
    1. Tulay CM, Yaldiz S, Bilge A. Do we really know the duration of pain after rib fracture? Kardiochir Torakochirurgia 2018; 15:147–150.
    1. Breasted J. The Edwin surgical papyrus, translation and commentary. Chicago: The University of Chicago Press; 1930.
    1. Avery EE, Morch ET, Head JR, Benson DW. Severe crushing injuries of the chest; a new method of treatment with continuous hyperventilation by means of intermittent positive endotracheal insufflation. Q Bull Northwest Univ Med Sch 1955; 29:301–303.