Surgical stabilization of multiple rib fractures can shorten inpatient stay
Halberg, R.; Neckelmann, K.
Ugeskrift for Laeger 180(8)
2018
ISSN/ISBN: 1603-6824 PMID: 29493501 Document Number: 696743
Flail chest is a common complication in patients with blunt chest wall traumas resulting in high mortality rates. In this case report a 43-year-old woman was stepped on by a horse, thereby receiving multiple rib fractures and pneumohaemothorax. She was not able to wean from epidural analgesia after ten days and maintained a "thoracic floating feeling". In opposition to the non-operative management previously preferred, a surgical stabilization was then performed in the patient, who was discharged only five days later. Thus, surgical fixation of multiple rib fractures may reduce inpatient stay.