Chest Wall and Diaphragmatic Injuries

Thoracic trauma is the second leading cause of death in case of trauma, after head trauma. Rib fractures are one of the most common injuries affecting trauma patients, occurring in approximately 10% of all cases, and they are associated with a mortality of 3–13%. Frequent complications of this condition are pneumonia, prolonged ventilator time, prolonged hospitalization, and chronic debilitating pain. It has been shown that a greater number of rib fractures are associated with an increased risk of complications, particularly in older patients. Optimal treatment of rib fractures has not been established; in particular, the role of surgery is a matter of debate.