Sternal fracture

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Sternal fracture

A sternal fracture is a break in the sternum, the long flat bone located in the center of the chest. This type of fracture is relatively uncommon and is often associated with blunt chest trauma, such as that sustained in motor vehicle accidents or from direct blows to the chest.

Causes

The most common cause of sternal fractures is blunt force trauma to the chest. This can occur in various situations, including:

• Motor vehicle collisions: The impact of the chest against the steering wheel or seatbelt can cause a sternal fracture.
• Sports injuries: Contact sports or activities with a high risk of falls can lead to chest trauma.
• Falls: Falling from a significant height or onto a hard surface can result in a sternal fracture.
• Assault: Direct blows to the chest during physical altercations.

Symptoms

Symptoms of a sternal fracture may include:

• Severe chest pain, especially when breathing deeply or coughing.
• Swelling and tenderness over the sternum.
• Bruising over the chest area.
• Difficulty breathing or shortness of breath.
• A feeling of instability in the chest.

Diagnosis

Diagnosis of a sternal fracture typically involves:

• Physical examination: A healthcare provider will check for tenderness, swelling, and bruising over the sternum.
• Imaging studies:
  • X-ray: The most common imaging technique used to identify sternal fractures.
  • CT scan: Provides a more detailed image and can help assess the extent of the injury and any associated damage to surrounding structures.

Treatment

Treatment for a sternal fracture depends on the severity of the injury:

• Pain management: Analgesics and anti-inflammatory medications are commonly prescribed to manage pain.
• Rest: Limiting physical activity to allow the bone to heal.
• Ice application: Applying ice to the injured area to reduce swelling and pain.
• Physical therapy: In some cases, physical therapy may be recommended to restore strength and mobility.

In severe cases, surgical intervention may be necessary to stabilize the fracture and ensure proper healing.

Complications

Potential complications of a sternal fracture include:

• Pneumothorax: Air in the chest cavity that can cause lung collapse.
• Cardiac contusion: Bruising of the heart muscle.
• Pulmonary contusion: Bruising of the lung tissue.
• Infection: If the fracture is associated with an open wound.

Prognosis

The prognosis for individuals with a sternal fracture is generally good, especially with appropriate treatment and management. Most patients recover fully within a few weeks to months, depending on the severity of the fracture and any associated injuries.

See also

• Rib fracture
• Chest trauma
• Blunt force trauma
• Motor vehicle accident