[Treatment of fracture of multiple ribs with absorbable rib fixed nail and dacron flap in 12 patients].

Abstract

OBJECTIVE:

To introduce the methods of dacron flap application and its indications in treating fracture of multiple ribs, in order to reduce the incidence of the complications of fracture displacement.

METHODS:

From September 2006 to March 2008, 12 patients with fracture of multiple ribs were treated with absorbable rib fixed nail and dacron flap. Included 8 males and 4 females,the age was from 22 to 51 years with an average of 38.2 years,the operative time was 2 hours to 3 days after injured. All the patients were closed injury and simultaneously accompanied with significant chest pain and chest tightness. 4 cases with dyspnea, blood in sputum and blood oxygen saturation decreased. The X-ray showed 3 cases of unilateral fracture and 9 cases of bilateral rib fractures and all cases accompanied with hemopneumothorax.

RESULTS:

All patients were followed up from 2 to 26 months with an average of 8 months. All the fractures healed. According to clinical criteria, pain, breathing, ribs alignment etc. to observe the effect, 10 cases got excellent result, 1 case good, 1 case poor.

CONCLUSION:

It is safe and effective to use absorbable rib fixed nails and dacron flap for treating fracture of multiple ribs and especially for the patients of osteoporosis, comminuted fracture or oblique fracture.

• Authors: Hai-hong Zhu, Tie-zheng Xu, Min Zhou, Quan-min Guo
• Journal: Zhongguo gu shang = China journal of orthopaedics and traumatology (Zhongguo Gu Shang) Vol. 22 Issue 10 Pg. 787-9 (Oct 2009) ISSN: 1003-0034 [Print] China
• PMID: 19902768 (Publication Type: English Abstract, Journal Article, Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't)

Topics

• Adult
• Bone Nails
• Female
• Fracture Fixation, Intramedullary
• Humans
• Male
• Middle Aged
• Rib Fractures (surgery)
• Surgical Flaps
• Treatment Outcome
• Young Adult