What defines a flail chest injury?

A flail chest injury is characterized by the fracture of two or more adjacent ribs in at least two places, creating a segment of the rib cage that is free-floating. This disrupts the normal mechanics of the chest wall and compromises respiratory function. During inhalation, the flail segment moves inward rather than outward, which can impair lung expansion and lead to inadequate ventilation.

This is particularly significant in trauma cases where the rib integrity is not only compromised but also affects the surrounding tissue and potentially the lung beneath the fractured area. The severity and implications of a flail chest injury often necessitate close monitoring and may require interventions such as pain management and respiratory support to ensure adequate oxygenation and prevent complications like pneumonia or respiratory distress.