what are the dangers associated with rib injuries
The ribs enclose vital organs such as the heart and lungs, so chest trauma can cause life-threatening injuries. These can include: Pneumothorax â collapsed lung due to changes in pressure within the chest. This could be caused by a broken rib tearing the lung or a puncture in the chest wall.
Pain is typically elicited with breathing or coughing. If the fractures are complex, the patient may suffer from additional damage to underlying structures. The sharp fractured end of the rib can puncture the lung, causing air leakage, a condition called a pneumothorax, which is potentially life threatening. In addition to pain, shortness of breath and decreased oxygen content in the blood can result from these injuries.