Ribs Flashcards
What are the 1st to 4th rib fractures typically from?
high impact forces
Why is the 1st rib fracture rare?
protected by shoulder girdle
What muscle can produce a powerful contraction and fracture the 1st rib at its thinnest point (Subclavian groove)?
anterior scalene
Where are isolated rib fractures most commonly seen?
Posterior angle of ribs 5-9
What are two or more adjacent ribs are fractured at two or more sites, resulting in a free floating rib segment?
Multiple rib fractures
What is a key sign in Multiple rib fractures?
Paradoxical breathing
How are ribs 10-12 typically fractured?
direct contact force over the area
What would rupture if you were to fracture the left lower ribs?
Spleen
What would rupture if you were to fracture the right lower ribs?
Liver
What would rupture if you were to fracture the posterior part of the lower ribs?
Kidney
What are the ribs made of before 3 months old?
Cartilage
What imaging modality will provide a definitive diagnosis. Will show occult fractures, especially on the first rib?
Scintigraphy
What can develop with multiple rib fractures?
Flail chest
During paradoxical breathing, what direction does the flail rib go during inspiration?
Inward
During paradoxical breathing, what direction does the flail rib go during expiration?
Outward
