Published in:
Open Access 01-12-2023 | Computed Tomography | Case Report
Complete uni-port video-assisted thoracoscopic surgery for surgical stabilization of rib fractures: a case report
Published in: Journal of Cardiothoracic Surgery | Issue 1/2023
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Background
Rib fractures are a common injury in trauma. Potential complications include pain, pneumonia, respiratory failure, disability, and death. Surgical stabilization of rib fractures (SSRF) has become an available treatment option, and complete video-assisted thoracoscopic surgery (VATS) for SSRF is gradually accepted because of minimally invasive and pain relief. To our knowledge, complete uni-port VATS for SSRF has not yet been reported.
Case presentation
A 53-year-old man accidentally fell off a three-meter high scaffolding while working resulting in severe chest pain and shortness of breath. He was found with left 7th through 11th rib fractures with a pulmonary contusion from computed tomography (CT). A 4 cm incision was made in the 7th intercostal space in the midaxillary line, and complete uni-port VATS for SSRF were operated. The patient's pain was significantly relieved after the operation, and the scar was tiny and unapparent.
Conclusions
Complete uni-port VATS for SSRF is a novel and modificatory method of operation with the benefit of minimal invasion, meanwhile, intrathoracic injuries could be treated at the same time. Further study is warranted.