Signs of a rib fracture: what complications threaten the injury

Fractured ribs most often occur due to a direct blow to the chest or a severe fall and injury. If 1 or 2 ribs are broken, this is considered a minor injury and does not require hospital treatment. In such cases, a cast is not applied, but a fixing bandage is attached and painkillers are prescribed. In case of damage to 4 or more rib bones, serious examination and treatment is required. The ribs perform the supporting function of the chest frame; if the support is damaged, the chest collapses, the lungs cannot withstand the load and stop breathing. To save a life, doctors connect the patient to a ventilator, and treatment in intensive care continues until the bones heal. estet-portal.com will tell you how to recognize the signs of a rib fracture and what complications may arise from the injury.

• Manifestations and signs of rib fractures
• 6 dangerous complications possible with rib fractures
• How long does it take to treat a rib fracture

Manifestations and signs of rib fractures

The injury is manifested by severe pain at the site of injury, aggravated by coughing, talking, and breathing. Sometimes there is tissue swelling and crunching of broken bone fragments. If the fracture is located on the side and in front, then breathing is significantly impaired due to poor pulmonary ventilation. A multiple fracture is characterized by severe pain, increased heart rate, pallor, bluish skin and hemoptysis. More useful information on our Instagram page!

There are the following signs of a rib fracture: • rapid breathing – oxygen does not reach the lungs in full; • inhalation causes severe pain, it is impossible to take a deep breath; • it is more convenient for the victim to be in a position tilted to the affected side; • slowness, putting on a sweater is difficult, even tying shoelaces is difficult; • in case of lung injury, coughing up blood is observed; • showing emotions brings pain, crying, laughter; • shortness of breath, sudden surges in pressure.

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The severity of symptoms depends on the type of fracture, the number of broken bones, and how long ago the injury was. The symptoms are similar to a bruise, but there are several significant differences. When bone fragments are displaced relative to each other, a characteristic sound and tactile sensations are observed. A hematoma forms in the area of ​​the broken rib. A sag appears in the chest area, and the injured part decreases in volume.

Possible consequences

There is always a possibility of developing one or another complication after a rib fracture. With complex combined injuries, the risks of negative consequences increase.

The table shows the most common, as well as the most dangerous, pathologies that arise from such injuries:

Let's look at each of these pathologies in more detail.

Osteoid cone

Normally, bone healing is accompanied by the formation of osteoid callus at the site of fusion. It consists of three parts: external, internal and intermediate. These types of adhesions are normal and, as the person recovers, they become denser, and subsequently resolve and take on the natural shape of the bone.

If a large lump forms on the rib after a fracture, which does not go away for a long time, increases in size and is manifested by inflammation of the soft tissues, we are talking about a periosteal callus. This formation is pathological, but its appearance to a certain extent can be prevented with the help of physiotherapy. Large lumps are treated surgically, which does not exclude relapses in the future.

Pneumothorax

A very common consequence of displacement of bone fragments is lung injury. When a rib is fractured, the integrity of the pleural membrane and organ tissues is disrupted. This disrupts the breathing process, air begins to accumulate between the outer and inner layers of the pleura.

The gas accumulation has no outlet, which can increase pressure on the lung and complicate its functioning. To prevent respiratory failure, it is necessary to ensure air removal through puncture.

Hemothorax

Damage to the lung or adjacent soft tissues may also be accompanied by a pathology such as hemothorax. In this case, an accumulation of blood forms between the layers of the pleural membrane of the injured lung. It interferes with respiratory activity, contributes to the development of stagnant processes and a decrease in alveolar activity of the organ.

To remove accumulated blood, the doctor uses the puncture method. Excess fluid is pumped out from the pleural space, and a drainage tube is installed to drain it.

Neuralgia

A less dangerous, but very unpleasant consequence is neuralgia after a rib fracture. The essence of the problem is damage to the nerve roots, which provokes intense pain in the intercostal muscles.

This phenomenon is more likely to occur with complex chest injuries, when not only the rib bones are affected, but also the vertebrae. In the presence of chronic diseases of the musculoskeletal system, the risk of intercostal neuralgia increases.

To eliminate pain, analgesics and novocaine blockades are used. To completely eliminate the problem, you need to free the affected nerves from the irritating influence.

Pleurisy

Inflammation of the pleural membrane of the lungs can also result from chest trauma. With post-traumatic pleurisy, fluid accumulates in the lungs after a rib fracture.

This is a dangerous condition, as it causes oxygen deficiency and heart rhythm disturbances. As the process progresses, inflammation spreads to neighboring tissues, breathing becomes very difficult, and pulmonary edema may develop.

To prevent complications, in particular death, it is necessary to pump out fluid from the lungs. Additionally, anti-inflammatory, hyposensitizing drugs, and antibiotics are prescribed.

Pneumonia

A common complication of rib fractures with impaired lung function is congestive pneumonia. Elderly patients are especially prone to its development. Hypostatic inflammation occurs with poor ventilation of the lungs, oxygen deficiency, stagnation of sputum and blood in the organ.

Instructions for eliminating the pathology include taking anti-inflammatory, antibacterial and painkillers, and using artificial ventilation methods. To remove purulent sputum, inhalations and expectorant syrups are prescribed.

Coronary insufficiency

Chronic coronary insufficiency is a serious pathology, as it can lead to death at any time. Damage to the heart causes insufficient oxygen to reach the heart due to obstruction of the coronary artery.

It is necessary to improve the supply of oxygen to the myocardium and maximize vascular patency and tone. In the chronic form, beta-blockers, calcium channel blockers and nitro compounds are used.

Internal bleeding

If large vessels or internal organs, such as the liver, stomach or spleen, are damaged, the price may be too high. In this case, massive internal bleeding occurs. Signs include intense pain, cold sweat, increased heart rate, drop in blood pressure, and pale face.

Urgent blood transfusion and surgery are required to repair tissue ruptures. If you do not have time to provide assistance to the victim, death occurs.

How long does it take to treat a rib fracture?

The diagnosis is made based on clinical data and examination results. Basic studies: chest x-ray, computed tomography, ultrasound and laboratory tests - to exclude complications. Purposeful and frequent deep breathing and coughing will help minimize pulmonary complications. In this case, you can slightly hold the affected area with your palm to reduce pain.

Patients with 3 or more fractures require hospitalization. Antibiotics and medical procedures are prescribed. When indicated, fractures are fixed with a bandage. In case of open injury, surgical intervention is required. Fusion of the ribs lasts 3 weeks, the process occurs in 3 stages. The connective callus develops into a steoid callus, and the last phase is a callus. The fracture line disappears after 4-8 weeks. Falling on Ice: How to Avoid Injuries and Fractures If you yourself discover signs of broken ribs after an injury or impact, seek help from a doctor. He will eliminate possible dangers to life and health and give recommendations for treatment. To prevent injury, avoid heavy exercise, avoid extreme sports, and eat foods rich in calcium. Which foods have the most calcium: top 9 superbenefits

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Prevention of complications

In order to prevent the development of complications, it is necessary to adhere to certain recommendations:

• perform special breathing exercises after a rib fracture;
• eliminate physical activity at first, then start doing light exercises with a small load;
• take necessary medications;
• do not drink alcoholic beverages;
• eat a balanced diet;
• take vitamin and mineral supplements.

Unfortunately, some consequences develop independently of the individual, so it is important to take timely responses. You can get more information on the topic from the video in this article.

What not to do if you have a broken rib

It is preferable to provide medical assistance to a professional. In this case, it is necessary to adhere to the basic rules that will prevent the development of complications. Among them are:

• Prohibition on physical activity, attempts to inhale or cough.
• Limiting rough palpation, which can lead to pathological displacement of fragments, as well as damage to nerve fibers and blood vessels.
• Making attempts to independently reduce damaged bone structures.
• Compliance with these rules will speed up the healing process.

To speed up the treatment of rib fracture symptoms at home or hospital treatment, it is important to avoid mistakes in first aid.

Rib fractures classification

Clinical classification includes various types of developed rib fractures.

Depending on the cause of the disease, damage is distinguished:

• Traumatic.
• Pathological. The pathology is associated with diseases affecting bone tissue.

Depending on the mechanism of injury, they can be:

• Straight. The damage is localized in the area where the impact occurred.
• Indirect. The zone shifts from the place where the force is applied, and the indentation leads to an angular displacement of the fragments. If the injury affects the area closer to the spinal column, then the damage shifts. The central fragment remains motionless, while the peripheral fragment moves.
• Tear-off. This type of injury can occur when the 9 or underlying bone is damaged. In this case, the fragments move over a long distance.

Depending on the damage to the skin, they are divided into:

• Open.
• Closed.

Open ones are in turn divided into:

• Primary open. Damage to the skin is associated with exposure to traumatic force.
• Secondary open. In this case, the skin is damaged due to the fragment and its release to the outside.

The closed view is divided into:

• Full. The bone is damaged along its entire length, all layers of bone tissue are destroyed.
• Incomplete. After exposure to a damaging agent, the integrity of one or more layers is damaged, but their complete destruction is not observed.

Depending on the nature of the damage, the varieties may be:

• Isolated.
• Combined. In addition to the violation of integrity, other parts of the skeletal system are involved in the pathological process.
• Not heavy. It is combined with a traumatic effect on soft tissue.

According to the type of fracture they can be:

• Transverse.
• Oblique.
• Helical.
• Hole-filled.
• Regional
• Splintered.
• Compression.
• Hammered.

This group also includes fenestrated complicated rib fractures.

Depending on the location, they can be:

• Diaphyseal.
• Metaphyseal.
• Epiphyseal.
• Based on the data obtained, treatment for rib fractures is selected.

How to provide first aid?

• Give the victim a pain reliever. The number of tablets depends on the severity of the fracture. If the pain is not severe, you can take Analgin or Ibuprofen. In severe cases - “Ketanov”, “Butorphanol”.
• Apply ice to the damaged area. It helps slow bleeding, relieves swelling, and temporarily makes nerve receptors insensitive.
• To reduce the shear of possible rib fragments, you need to wrap the chest with a towel or piece of thick fabric.
• Take the victim to the clinic.

Diagnostics

The doctor examines and interviews the patient. A damaged area on the skin is visually observed. When palpated, a rib split is felt, as well as crepitus of the fragments. The presence of a characteristic symptom of interrupted inspiration is one of the evidence of damage, when pain makes it impossible to take a deep breath. Pain is felt when bending in the direction opposite to the fracture.

X-ray examination is considered an effective method. A thoracic computed tomography scan, which is more sensitive than an x-ray, will help detect a rib cartilage fracture and will determine the number of damaged ribs. A CT scan of the chest also reveals the extent of the damage. Milestone disorders of osteochondral tissue can also be detected by ultrasound.

Treatment at home

Treatment of an uncomplicated rib fracture in most cases is carried out on an outpatient basis. The patient is prescribed various non-drug methods. The main areas of therapy include:

• Compliance with a gentle regime. When asked how to sleep with a fracture, you can sleep on the healthy side. In this case, it is necessary to limit physical activity, heavy lifting, and active movements of the upper shoulder girdle.
• Taking medications. In the initial stages of the disease, it is recommended to use drugs that reduce the severity of pain. Treatment for a closed rib fracture includes the use of ointments and gels.
• Applying a tight bandage. To limit motor activity of the chest, it is possible to use elastic bandaging or wearing a corset.
• Nutrition that includes a sufficient amount of protein in the diet, as well as foods rich in calcium and various minerals and trace elements.

Treatment differs if a rib fracture occurs without displacement or with displacement.