[Single-port VATS-assisted internal fixation of serial rib fractures]. / "Single-port-VATS"-assistierte Osteosynthese von Rippenserienfrakturen.

ABSTRACT

This article describes the operative stabilization of a flail chest due to traumatic serial rib fractures with extensive chest wall deformation and respiratory insufficiency. Initial conservative treatment including systemic and regional pain management and non-invasive positive pressure ventilation did not improve the pain or ventilation. Therefore, a single-port video-assisted thoracoscopic surgery (VATS) assisted internal fixation of the ribs was performed. The thoracoscopy enabled easy repositioning of the ribs and additionally an estimation of intrathoracic injuries.