# Surgical Stabilization of Rib Fractures

- Link: https://sifsof.com/clinical-apps/surgical-stabilization-of-rib-fractures/
- Published: 2021-10-04T12:40:37+00:00
- Author: Sales

Rib fractures are a common thoracic injury that is encountered in 20% to 39% of 
patients with blunt chest trauma. It is associated with substantial [morbidity and mortality](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29766079/).
Traditionally, the majority of these patients with have been managed nonoperatively.
Recently, the utilization of surgical stabilization of rib fractures has increased
considerably because the procedure has shown [superior outcomes](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28700410/).
Portable ultrasound is a modality of medical ultrasonography that utilizes small
and light devices, and is an established diagnostic method used in clinical settings
such as Cardiology, Vascular Surgery, Radiology, Endocrinology, Pediatric and Obstetric&
Gynecology.

The use of portable ultrasound devices in operation theatre demonstrates several
advantages Portable color [doppler ultrasound](https://www.sciencedirect.com/topics/medicine-and-dentistry/doppler-flowmetry)
systems for instance have become an entrenched part in the management of rib fracture.
A case study mentioned in the [Annals of Medicine and Surgery](https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/journal/20490801)
[ Volume 36](https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/journal/20490801/36/supp/C), 
December 2018, Pages 96-98 has demonstrates that the portable ultrasound system 
is a valuable method of imaging in the assessment of rib fractures, and which can
save time, economically affordable for many patients, and allow surgeons to make
a minor incision in order to avoid complications such as infection, particularly
in elderly patients.

It has been reported in the literature that a fractured rib can injure neighboring
organs including the descending aorta, which is a life-threatening complication.
Data from the literature supports that approximately 10% of all blunt force injuries
that occur in the elderly have had more than 1 rib fracture. Patients, older than
65 years, were at high risk for rib fracture due to falls sustained from a standing
position or from height such as climbing a ladder. Several studies in the adult 
population of patients revealed that besides associated injuries, other independent
factors that adversely affect mortality rate include [older age](https://academic.oup.com/ejcts/article/23/3/374/521809?login=true)
and [higher number of fractured ribs](https://academic.oup.com/ejcts/article/23/3/374/521809?login=true).

Herein, we highly recommend the utility of a handheld color [doppler ultrasound](https://www.sciencedirect.com/topics/medicine-and-dentistry/doppler-flowmetry)
system like the Linear Wireless Ultrasound Scanner SIFULTRAS-5.34 – Color Doppler
in the management of rib fractures.

Using a high-frequency 7.5 to 10 MHz  color doppler linear transducer is the status
quo in the assessment of rib fractures. For this reason, our [orthopedist ](https://sifsof.com/product-category/doctor-specialties/orthopedic-surgeon/)
clients tend to use the Linear portable Ultrasound Scanner [SIFULTRAS-5.34](https://sifsof.com/product/linear-wireless-ultrasound-scanner-sifultras-5-34/).
This ultrasound has an Intelligent terminal platform, powerful expansion functions
on application, storage, communication and printing. It’s a small, mobile scanner
packed with high-end technology.

This procedure is performed by a qualified surgeon trained in ultrasound technology*

Reference:[ The use of a portable ultrasound system in the surgical assessment of rib fractures in an elderly patient[Surgical Stabilization of Rib Fractures](https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7478329/)

 * ![Linear Wireless Ultrasound Scanner SIFULTRAS-5.34 - Color Doppler main](https://
   sifsof.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/11/Linear-color-portable-ultrasound-scanner-
   SIFULTRAS-5.34--300x300.jpg)
 * Linear Wireless Ultrasound Scanner SIFULTRAS-5.34 – Color Doppler