Prognosis of Flail Chest

Flail chest happens when a segment of the ribs separates from the chest wall, unable to accommodate lung expansion, and typically accompanied by bruises on the lungs, according to learningradiology.com.

Cause

• Severe trauma three or more ribs causes flail chest when blood, air and/or fluid collection constricts normal breathing.

Significance

• While an uncommon condition, symptoms of flail chest include bruises in the chest area, chest pain and difficulty breathing, reports learningradiology.com.

Prognosis

• According to eMedicine, severe blunt chest injury is one of the leading causes of death by trauma. For those who survive the initial injury, about 10 percent will die from flail chest complications, says learningradiology.com.

Pain Management

• According to the University of Rochester Medical Center (URMC) website, doctors typically prescribe analgesics for flail chest pain, as high doses of stronger medications can further impair breathing. Numbing agents may also be delivered by epidural.

Treatment

• The URMC says treatment for flail chest has evolved, with doctors aiming to prevent pneumonia and protect patients' lungs. In addition to an oxygen mask, doctors may use mechanical ventilation and/or corrective surgery.