This study retrospectively investigates the causes of mortality and morbidity in patients undergoing rib fracture surgery due to blunt trauma. The primary objective is to determine whether pulmonary contusion or associated extrathoracic trauma plays a more significant role in adverse outcomes. Data collected includes patient demographics, trauma mechanisms, associated injuries, surgical timing, and clinical outcomes. The study aims to provide insights into improving management strategies for trauma patients and reducing complication rates through early identification and tailored interventions.

This retrospective study investigates the underlying causes of morbidity and mortality in patients who underwent rib stabilization surgery due to blunt trauma-induced rib fractures. The primary objective is to determine whether pulmonary contusion or associated extrathoracic trauma plays a more significant role in adverse outcomes such as pneumonia, prolonged air leaks, tracheostomy, wound infections, and mortality.

The study includes patients diagnosed with flail chest who underwent rib stabilization surgery between January 1, 2014, and January 1, 2024, at a single tertiary care center. Collected data encompasses patient demographics, trauma mechanisms, associated injuries (thoracic and extrathoracic), surgery timing (early vs. late stabilization), ventilator settings, extubation duration, intensive care unit (ICU) and hospital length of stay, laboratory parameters, and clinical outcomes.

Key outcomes include the incidence of morbidity (e.g., pneumonia, prolonged air leak, wound infections) and mortality. Statistical analyses will evaluate the relationship between these outcomes and factors such as the severity and timing of injuries, surgery timing, trauma mechanisms, and associated injuries.

The study aims to provide valuable insights into optimizing the management of flail chest patients, emphasizing the importance of early rib stabilization and a multidisciplinary approach. These findings are expected to contribute to the development of standardized protocols for patient selection and intervention timing, potentially improving patient outcomes in multitrauma settings.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Patients aged 18-80 years diagnosed with flail chest following blunt trauma who underwent rib stabilization surgery
• Those with complete clinical and laboratory data
• Those with at least 30 days of follow-up after surgery.

Exclusion Criteria:

• Patients under 18 years of age
• Flail chest patients who did not require rib stabilization surgery
• Patients with incomplete clinical or laboratory data
• Those with penetrating thoracic trauma.

Patients with blunt trauma-induced rib fractures leading to flail chest, treated with rib stabilization surgery in a hospital setting.