Surgical Methods of Chest Stabilization in Multiple Rib Fractures

Abstract

Closed chest injury occupies one of the leading places among all injuries. Rib fractures can lead to the formation of floating fragments of the chest wall, the “costal valve”. With multiple rib fractures, surgical methods of chest stabilization have been used since the beginning of the 20th century, which have become more popular in recent decades. Surgical treatment can significantly reduce pain, accelerate the recovery of respiratory function. In turn, a decrease in pain reduces the incidence of pneumonia, the need for mechanical ventilation and tracheostomy, and the period of hospitalization. There are four main surgical methods of treatment: 1) chest traction methods; 2) external fixation devices; 3) methods of permanent internal fixation; 4) plate osteosynthesis. We also separated the group of techniques performed via thoracoscopic access and the technique using biodegradable materials. Surgical options in the treatment of patients with multiple rib fractures have not been exhausted and are likely to improve with advances in technology.