Journal of Chest Surgery

The Korean Society for Thoracic and Cardiovascular Surgery (대한심장혈관흉부외과학회)
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Rib Fractures: To Fix or Not to Fix? An Evidence-Based Algorithm

  • Bemelman, Michael (Department of Surgery, St. Elisabeth Hospital, University Medical Centre Utrecht) ;
  • de Kruijf, M.W. (Department of Surgery, St. Elisabeth Hospital, University Medical Centre Utrecht) ;
  • van Baal, Mark (Department of Surgery, St. Elisabeth Hospital, University Medical Centre Utrecht) ;
  • Leenen, Luke (Department of Surgery, University Medical Centre Utrecht)
  • Received : 2017.06.05
  • Accepted : 2017.07.22
  • Published : 2017.08.05
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Abstract

Rib fractures are a common injury resulting from blunt chest trauma. The most important complications associated with rib fractures include death, pneumonia, and the need for mechanical ventilation. The development of new osteosynthesis materials has stimulated increased interest in the surgical treatment of rib fractures. Surgical stabilisation, however, is not needed for every patient with rib fractures or for every patient with flail chest. This paper presents an easy-to-use evidence-based algorithm, developed by the authors, for the treatment of patients with flail chest and isolated rib fractures.

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References

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