Optimal Follow-up Duration for Traumatic Multiple Rib Fractures

Objective: The rib fracture, which is one of the most common consequences of chest trauma, can cause respiratory distress, and even mortality if not properly treated. There’s still limited data on the length and frequency of follow-ups in terms of the challenges that may arise after an uneventful follow-up. The focus of this research is to standardize the optimal follow-up time in patients with rib fracture. Methods: Patients with isolated chest trauma who were admitted to the Emergency Department or were referred to the Thoracic Surgery Clinic from other hospitals within a year were included in our study. The study did not include any patients who needed thoracic intervention. Rib fracture complications were observed both during and after hospitalization. Results: Complications did not develop in the majority of patients during hospital follow-up and discharge, but haemothorax was the most prevalent (21.4-12.2%) within the first 72 hours and at discharge. Conclusion: Patients with rib fractures who are followed up and discharged may develop fatal consequences. When patients with recent rib fracture present to the emergency department, the emergency room physician should be alert about long-term problems.