FlailChest
Flail chest is a serious chest wall injury characterized by unstable segments of the rib cage, typically resulting from blunt blunt trauma. It usually occurs when two or more consecutive ribs are fractured in two or more places, or when the sternum is involved, creating a free-floating chest wall segment.
The defining feature is paradoxical movement of the affected segment. During inspiration the flail segment moves
Causes are most often blunt trauma from motor vehicle accidents, falls, or crush injuries. Associated injuries
Diagnosis is based on clinical examination and imaging. Observing paradoxical chest movement is a key sign.
Management focuses on airway, breathing, and pain control. Supplemental oxygen and adequate analgesia are essential to