A new instrument for surgical stabilization of multiple rib fractures

Abstract

Objective Rib fixation is an effective treatment for patients with multiple rib fractures. We retrospectively evaluated the application of a four-claw titanium plate in patients with rib fractures. Methods Fifty-four patients treated for multiple rib fractures in our hospital from 2012 to 2016 were divided into a surgery group (n = 27) and conservative treatment group (n = 27). The patients’ age, sex, cause of fracture, Injury Severity Score, chest Abbreviated Injury Scale score, number of ventilator days, and length of hospitalization were recorded. Results The mean duration of mechanical ventilation was 4.5 ± 0.7 and 7.9 ± 1.7 days in the surgery and control group, respectively, with a significant difference. The length of intensive care unit stay was also significantly different between the groups (5.9 ± 0.6 vs. 10.6 ± 1.9 days, respectively). The length of hospital stay and recovery time to regular life in the surgery and control group were 11.5 ± 1.9 and 3.9 ± 4.0 days and 38.2 ± 8.3 and 60.8 ± 12.1 days, respectively, both with significant differences. Conclusion A four-claw titanium plate is valuable for patients with multiple rib fractures, allowing easy fixation of broken ribs beneath the scapula, even the second rib.