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Surgical Endoscopy

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Open Access 01-01-2016 | New Technology

The surgical stabilization of multiple rib fractures using titanium elastic nail in blunt chest trauma with acute respiratory failure

Authors: Yih-Wen Tarng, Yuan-Yuarn Liu, Fong-Dee Huang, Hsing-Lin Lin, Tzu-Chin Wu, Yi-Pin Chou

Published in: Surgical Endoscopy | Issue 1/2016

Abstract

Background

Blunt chest injuries are usually combined with multiple rib fractures and severe lung contusions. This can occasionally induce acute respiratory failure and prolong ventilations. In order to reduce the periods of ventilator dependency, we propose a less invasive method of fixing multiple rib fractures.

Methods

Since October 2009, we have developed a new method to fix fractured ribs caused by blunt trauma. Rib fixations were performed using 2.0- or 2.5-mm intramedullary titanium elastic nails (TEN), with the help of video-assisted thoracoscopic surgery (VATS) and minimal thoracic incisions. All the patients’ demographics and postoperative data were collected.

Results

From January 2010 to December 2012, a total of 65 patients presenting with multiple rib fractures resulting in acute respiratory failure were included in the study. Twelve patients received the new surgical fixation. Rib fixations were performed at an average of 4 days after trauma. Patients were successfully weaned off ventilators after an average of 3 days. The average length of stay in the hospital and the intensive care unit (ICU) was shorter for the patients with fixation than for nonsurgical patients. All twelve patients returned to normal daily activities and work.

Conclusions

In the reconstruction of an injured chest wall, the VATS with TENs fixation in multiple rib fractures is feasible. This method is also effective in decreasing the length of the surgical wound. Because the structure of the chest cage is protected, the period of mechanical ventilation is shortened and the length of stay in the hospital and the ICU can be reduced.

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Title: The surgical stabilization of multiple rib fractures using titanium elastic nail in blunt chest trauma with acute respiratory failure
Authors: Yih-Wen Tarng
Yuan-Yuarn Liu
Fong-Dee Huang
Hsing-Lin Lin
Tzu-Chin Wu
Yi-Pin Chou
Publication date: 01-01-2016
Publisher: Springer US
Published in: Surgical Endoscopy / Issue 1/2016
Print ISSN: 0930-2794
Electronic ISSN: 1432-2218
DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s00464-015-4207-9

Keynote webinar | Spotlight on medication adherence

Springer Medicine

The surgical stabilization of multiple rib fractures using titanium elastic nail in blunt chest trauma with acute respiratory failure

Abstract

Background

Methods

Results

Conclusions

Keynote webinar | Spotlight on medication adherence

Springer Medicine

Abstract

Background

Methods

Results

Conclusions

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