What Is a Broken Sternum?

Understanding a Broken Sternum

This post was written with Consensus AI Academic Search Engine – please read our Disclaimer at the end of this article. A broken sternum, also known as a sternal fracture, is a serious injury that involves a break or crack in the breastbone, which is located in the center of the chest. This type of fracture is often associated with significant trauma and can be life-threatening if not properly managed.

Causes and Diagnosis

Sternal fractures commonly occur due to high-impact trauma, such as in car accidents or during cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR). The incidence of sternal fractures during CPR can range from 1% to 43% depending on the method used, with mechanical chest compression devices like LUCAS 2 showing similar rates of sternal fractures compared to manual compressions3. Advanced imaging techniques, such as Multislice Computed Tomography (MSCT), are valuable in diagnosing sternal fractures, especially in distinguishing between stable and unstable fractures. MSCT can also help identify associated injuries, such as traumatic wet lung and rib fractures, which are common in patients with sternal fractures2.

Treatment Options

The treatment of a broken sternum can vary depending on the severity of the fracture and associated injuries. Conservative treatment is often employed, but surgical intervention may be necessary in severe cases. Surgical fixation of the sternal fracture can significantly reduce complications and mortality rates1. Additionally, the use of chest orthosis has been shown to be effective in the early treatment of sternal fractures, reducing pain and improving patient outcomes5.

Complications and Healing

Complications from a broken sternum can include respiratory issues and infections. The healing process can be influenced by various factors, including the use of hemostatic agents during surgical procedures. For instance, bone wax has been found to inhibit sternal healing and is associated with chronic inflammation, whereas water-soluble polymer wax presents a less inhibitory alternative4.

Conclusion

A broken sternum is a serious injury that requires timely diagnosis and appropriate treatment to minimize complications and improve recovery outcomes. Advanced imaging techniques and innovative treatment methods, such as surgical fixation and chest orthosis, play crucial roles in managing this condition effectively. Understanding the potential complications and healing dynamics is essential for optimizing patient care.

Disclaimer

The content presented in this blog is generated by Consensus, an AI-powered academic search engine, and is based on publicly available scientific literature. While every effort is made to provide accurate, up-to-date, and well-researched information, the content is intended for informational and educational purposes only. It does not constitute medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before making any decisions regarding medical conditions, treatments, or medications. The AI system’s analysis may not cover all perspectives, emerging research, or individual cases, and it is not a substitute for professional expertise. Neither the blog publisher nor the developers of the AI-powered search engine are responsible for any actions taken based on the information provided in this content. Use of this information is at your own risk. Citations to the original scientific studies are included for reference, but these studies should be reviewed in full and interpreted with the guidance of a healthcare or research professional.

If you are experiencing a medical emergency, please seek immediate attention from a healthcare provider.