What are the complications of rib fractures?
The most severe and critical complication of displaced rib fractures is a pneumothorax. A displaced rib fracture can puncture the lungs and the pleural sac surrounding the lungs effectively deflating the lung on the side of the pleural puncture. As the lung deflates, the athlete will have increasing pain and difficulty breathing. A pneumothorax should be suspected if an athlete exhibits any of the following signs and or symptoms: • Anxiety/restlessness • Painful breathing • Increased heart rate • Cyanosis • Distended neck veins • Severe chest pain • Decreased or absent breath sounds of affected lung • Decreased blood pressure • Asymmetric chest expansion If a pneumothorax is suspected, emergency medical services should be immediately called. The athlete should be kept calm and quiet with a focus on slow and controlled breathing. What are the signs and symptoms of a rib fracture? If the mechanism of injury for the athlete involves a direct blow to the ribs or an indirect force resulting
