A review of surgical stabilization of rib fractures in chest injury patients

Rib fractures are a common consequence of blunt thoracic trauma and are associated with significant pain, respiratory compromise, and increased morbidity and mortality, particularly in cases of flail chest and multiple displaced fractures. While Non Operative Management (NOM) remains appropriate for many patients, Surgical Stabilization of Rib Fractures (SSRF) has gained increasing acceptance in selected populations. Recent evidence demonstrates that SSRF improves chest-wall stability, enhances respiratory mechanics, reduces duration of mechanical ventilation, intensive care unit and hospital length of stay, pulmonary complications and mortality, especially in patients with ventilator-dependent respiratory failure or thoracic-cage instability. Advances in imaging, implant technology and surgical techniques have contributed to improved safety and outcomes with very low complication rates. This review summarizes the current indications, contraindications, timing, surgical approaches, outcome, and complications of SSRF, highlighting its role in the contemporary management of severe chest-wall injuries.