Flail Chest

Question 1

Flail Chest

Answer 1

Two or more ribs broken in two or more places, creating a separate piece of chest wall that does not ventilate physiologically.

Question 2

Flail Chest - Physical assessment Findings

Answer 2

-Tachypnea
-Increased BP and HR
-Paradoxical chest movement
-Cyanosis
-Diminished BS on both lungs
-Atelectasis and consolidation causing:
Dull percussion notes and Increased tactile and vocal fremitus

Question 3

Flail Chest - CRX

Answer 3

• Rib fractures
• Increased density on affected side
• Increased opacity

Question 4

Flail Chest - Treatment

Answer 4

Mild Cases:
-Medication for pain and routine bronchial hygiene
Severe cases:
-volume controlled ventilation with PEEP
-5 to 10 days for sufficient bone healing
Protocols
-Oxygen therapy
-Lung expansion therapy
-Mechanical ventilation therapy