emDOCs
EM@3AM - April 9, 2022 - By Seth Cohen; Joshua Kern
Reviewed by: Alex Koyfman and Brit Long
Key Points:
- Rib fractures can have serious complications including hemo/pneumothorax, aortic injury, and splenic/liver lacerations
- Adults, especially elderly patients, have a high risk of complications with rib fractures
- Evaluate with a chest x-ray. Follow up with a CT if there is suspicion for any chest/abdomen injuries that would require a change in management
- Reinforce the importance of an incentive spirometer and appropriate analgesia