Sternal fracture: Difference between revisions
| Line 5: | Line 5: | ||
**Low mortality (<1%) | **Low mortality (<1%) | ||
**Low intrathoracic morbidity | **Low intrathoracic morbidity | ||
===Associated Injuries=== | |||
* | *[[Rib fracture]] | ||
*No association between sternal fracture and aortic rupture | *[[Pulmonary contusion]] | ||
*[[Myocardial contusion]] (1.5%) | |||
*<u>No</u> association between sternal fracture and aortic rupture | |||
==Clinical Features== | ==Clinical Features== | ||
Revision as of 18:55, 13 June 2020
Background
- Fracture is more likely in restrained passengers than unrestrained passengers
- Isolated sternal fracture is relatively benign
- Low mortality (<1%)
- Low intrathoracic morbidity
Associated Injuries
- Rib fracture
- Pulmonary contusion
- Myocardial contusion (1.5%)
- No association between sternal fracture and aortic rupture
Clinical Features
- Anterior chest pain
- Point tenderness over sternum
- Ecchymosis, soft tissue swelling
Differential Diagnosis
Thoracic Trauma
- Airway/Pulmonary
- Cardiac/Vascular
- Musculoskeletal
- Other
Evaluation
- Imaging
- Most are visible on lateral CXR or on ultrasound
Management
Disposition
- Isolated, non-displaced fracture:
- If pain control achieved and ECG normal ok to discharge home
- Displaced fracture or concern for severe pain or respiratory compromise:
- Refer for operative fixation