Work

Clinical application of a novel rib fracture score system in patients with multiple rib fractures

Year: 2026

Type: article

Abstract: Objectives To validate a new type of rib fracture score system for treatment decisions in patients with multiple rib fractures. Methods This retrospective study included patients admitted with multiple rib fractures from one clinical center between April 2017 and April 2022. Patients were divided into the conservative group and the surgical group based on their management strategy. The patients were assessed using a novel rib fracture score system based on anatomical and pathophysiological characteristics. Results In a study of 564 patients, 290 underwent surgical treatment while 274 received conservative treatment. Surgical patients had significantly higher satisfaction scores ( P < 0.001) and a greater prevalence of chronic diseases ( P = 0.022). The optimal satisfaction cut-off was 9.5 points, dividing patients into low score (LS, <10) and high score (HS, ≥10) groups. In the LS group, pneumonia incidence was similar ( P > 0.05). However, in the HS group, surgical patients experienced lower pneumonia rates (no pneumonia: 76.1% vs. 11.5%, P < 0.001), reduced ventilator hours (8.1 ± 37.6 vs. 23.7 ± 66.7, P < 0.001), and less opioid use (1.2 ± 1.5 vs. 2.7 ± 2.5 times, P < 0.001). For scores ≥15, conservative treatment may lead to increased respiratory complications. Conclusions Clinical application of the novel rib fracture score system may be efficient in stratifying patients with rib fractures. Patients with a score ≥10 may benefit from surgical intervention. Patients with a score ≥15 may have a greater risk of respiratory complications during the period of conservative treatment compared with the LS group, suggesting the importance of surgical intervention in such patients.

Source: Frontiers in Surgery

DOI: 10.3389/fsurg.2025.1653221

Authors: Jianpeng Zhang, Weiqiang Li, Zhidong Liu

Institutions: Capital Medical University, Beijing Chest Hospital, Beijing Luhe Hospital Affiliated to Capital Medical University

Language: English

Topic: Trauma Management and Diagnosis

Subfield: Surgery

Field: Medicine

Domain: Health Sciences

SDG: Good health and well-being

Open Access status: gold

Estimated APC paid: $3,801