Sternal fracture

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Sternal fracture
DisplacedSternalFracture.jpg
Synonyms Fracture of the sternum
Pronounce N/A
Specialty N/A
Symptoms Chest pain, difficulty breathing, tenderness over the sternum
Complications Pneumothorax, cardiac contusion, pulmonary contusion
Onset Sudden, typically due to trauma
Duration Varies, depending on severity and treatment
Types N/A
Causes Blunt trauma, motor vehicle collision, direct impact
Risks Osteoporosis, high-impact sports, seatbelt injury
Diagnosis Physical examination, X-ray, CT scan
Differential diagnosis Rib fracture, costochondritis, myocardial infarction
Prevention Use of seat belts, protective gear in sports
Treatment Pain management, rest, physical therapy, surgery in severe cases
Medication N/A
Prognosis Generally good with appropriate treatment
Frequency Relatively uncommon
Deaths N/A


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[edit | edit source]

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[edit | edit source]

Symptoms of a sternal fracture may include:

Diagnosis[edit | edit source]

Diagnosis of a sternal fracture typically involves:

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[edit | edit source]

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

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

Complications[edit | edit source]

Potential complications of a sternal fracture include:

Prognosis[edit | edit source]

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[edit | edit source]

References[edit | edit source]

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Contributors: Prab R. Tumpati, MD