Simultaneous fixation of rib and clavicle fractures in patients with multiple thoracic trauma

Background. The combination of multiple rib fractures with a clavicle fracture can lead to severe chest deformities; respiratory dysfunction; and loss of shoulder function. In this regard; the study of the effectiveness and results of simultaneous surgical stabilization of injuries to the rib cage and upper limb girdle seems to be a relevant and scientifically sound direction.

The aim. To investigate the epidemiology and treatment features of patients with combined chest injuries and clavicle fractures.

Materials and methods. The epidemiological and clinical-topographic characteristics of combined chest injuries and clavicle fractures are studied. The experience of introducing the developed method of surgical stabilization of rib fractures into clinical practice is presented using the example of a 40-year-old victim with multiple thoracic trauma. An unsystematic review of the literature on the topic of the study is performed.

Results. Among closed chest injuries; rib fractures occurred in 75 % (n = 490) of the total number of hospitalized patients (n = 654). The vast majority of patients with rib fractures; 76.9 % (n = 377); were men. A combination of musculoskeletal injuries and chest trauma was detected in 22.5 % of patients (n = 110). According to our data; a combination of rib and clavicle fractures occurred in 12.1 % of cases (n = 59). The treatment outcome of a 40-year-old patient hospitalized with multiple rib fractures and a clavicle fracture was analyzed after simultaneous fixation of the injuries. No complications were observed during the treatment.

Conclusions. Studying the mutual influence of thoracic trauma and injuries to the upper limb girdle; as well as the possibilities of surgical treatment of fractures of the designated anatomical areas seems relevant. The presented clinical case clearly confirms the effectiveness of simultaneous surgical stabilization of the chest frame and clavicle fracture.

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