Open Reduction and Internal Fixation of a Chronic Precordial Flail Chest Segment

Abstract

Case: We report on a 35-year-old man presenting with disabling pain secondary to multiple rib nonunions and a costochondral dislocation 5 months after sustaining a chest wall crush injury. He underwent surgical reconstruction of the chest and was followed for 2 years. Surgical exposure to the heart was necessary during open reduction of the flail segment, followed by costochondral joint fixation with plates and screws. Although he was a workers’ compensation patient, he returned to full gainful employment. Conclusion: Open reduction and internal fixation of a symptomatic, chronically displaced, precordial, flail segment can relieve pain and promote return to baseline function.