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SEPTEMBER 2017 | The Surgical Technologist | 397 SurgicalRibFixation L E A R N I N G O B J E C T I V E S s Discuss how surgical intervention of fractured ribs can help the patient heal s List the elements that create the framework of the thoracic cage s Identify the sets of ribs and what they are comprised of s Pinpoint which ribs are most easily fractured as well as the ones that fracture the least s Define flail chest and the symptoms associated with this condition Jul i e Beard, cst Surgical intervention, however, can minimize the time a patient spends in the ICU, their need for mechanical ventilation and a reduced recovery time. K-wires into the medulla of the rib, sewing the fractures or the use of sternal wires to secure the ribs together have provided mixed results. These treatments require large incisions and have the general risks associated with major surgical interven- tion. More recently, however, the use of specifically designed plates and screws have given surgeons a way to stabilize the fracture while yielding better results and a smaller incision. With the creation of a lower profile, the anatomically contoured plating systems have been designed to follow rib anatomy and provides for a better solution than wires and suture. A N A T O M Y The sternum, ribs, rib cartilage and xiphoid process create the frame- work of the thoracic cage and protects the organs during respiration Treatment for rib fractures has changed over time. The traditional form of treatment has been pain management and rest while the fractures heal. Non- surgical stabilization of the fracture site is difficult given the constant anatomical movement of respira- tion, which results in slow healing.