Sternum Fracture
A sternum fracture is a break to the breast bone. A sternal fracture is most often caused by a direct impact to the bone, at the front of the chest. This is most frequent in road traffic accidents.
Symptoms of a Sternum Fracture
- A sudden onset of pain at the front of the chest.
- Pain is usually well localised and doe not radiate.
- It will be very tender to touch the fracture area.
- Bruising may start to appear after a few hours.
- Up to 20% may demonstrate breathing difficulties.
Causes
Fractured sternums most frequently occur during road traffic accidents. A fractured sternum may also occur during chest compressions as performed during CPR (cardiopulmonary resuscitation). Fractures of the breast bone may also happen with considerably less force and have been seen in Golfers and weight lifters previously. Older people with Osteoporosis may also be more at risk.
Whilst a fracture is a common injury which is often straightforward to treat, a sternal fracture should be examined thoroughly and put under observation for other complications. These may include pulmonary and cardiac contusions (bruising of the lungs or heart) or damage to the aorta (main artery from the heart). If the fractured part of the bone has been displaced, this is more likely to cause further complications.
Treatment
Treatment of a sternal fracture which has not been displaced generally involves rest and the use of painkillers or anti-inflammatory medications.
If the bone fragment has become displaced, a surgical procedure may be require to re-align the two bone pieces and possible fix them with pins or screws.
