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Published in: Skeletal Radiology 10/2007

01-10-2007 | Scientific Article

Stress fractures of the ribs in elite competitive rowers: a report of nine cases

Authors: S. Dragoni, A. Giombini, A. Di Cesare, M. Ripani, G. Magliani

Published in: Skeletal Radiology | Issue 10/2007

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Abstract

Objective

The objective was to report the clinical and imaging patterns of nine cases of stress fractures of the rib diagnosed in Italian Olympic rowers.

Patients and methods

Nine patients with stress fractures of the rib detected from 103 (8.7%) Italian team rowers competing between May 2000 and May 2006 were identified based on the database of a sports medicine institute. All athletes were male. They were aged between 17 and 31 years (mean: 24.4). Patient weight, fracture location, rowing side and imaging methods employed were noted.

Results

The diagnosis was made based on history, clinical examination and Tc-99m MDP bone scintigraphy. Eight of the 9 fractures were located anterolaterally between the fourth and ninth rib. In 1 of the 5 athletes with standard radiographs, a fracture line was visible and in 4 there was callus formation. In 2 athletes sonography was performed, which detected discontinuity of the rib surface and callus formation (1 case each).

Conclusion

Stress fractures of the ribs are relatively common in competitive rowers. They are characterized by increasing lateral chest pain and typical scintigraphic, radiographic and sonographic findings.
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Metadata
Title
Stress fractures of the ribs in elite competitive rowers: a report of nine cases
Authors
S. Dragoni
A. Giombini
A. Di Cesare
M. Ripani
G. Magliani
Publication date
01-10-2007
Publisher
Springer-Verlag
Published in
Skeletal Radiology / Issue 10/2007
Print ISSN: 0364-2348
Electronic ISSN: 1432-2161
DOI
https://doi.org/10.1007/s00256-007-0350-2

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