Poster Presentation ANZTS Trauma 2024 Conference

Rib Fixation: New Horizons in Regional Surgery (21622)

Xin Yi Goai 1 2 , Imeshi Indigahawela 1 , Weiwei Shi 1 , Constantin Dlaska 2 , Mahanama Dissanayake 2 , Casper Pretorius 1 2 , Christian Beardsley 1 2 3
  1. General Surgery Unit, Goulburn Valley Health, Shepparton, Victoria, Australia
  2. General Surgery Unit, Mackay Hospital and Health Services, Mackay, Queensland, Australia
  3. Upper Gastrointestinal and Hepatopancreaticobiliary Unit, Cairns and Hinterland Hospital and Health Service, Cairns, Queensland, Australia

Introduction: Rib fractures are a common consequence of trauma, often necessitating surgical stabilisation. Mackay Base Hospital (MBH) is a regional centre managing trauma cases, including rib fractures. MBH strives to provide optimal care for patients requiring surgical stabilisation of rib fractures (SSRF). This paper aims to provide insight into SSRF practices at MBH, highlighting patient demographics, procedural outcomes, challenges faced, and strategies for improvement. Method: Retrospective analysis of patients undergoing SSRF at MBH from January 2021 to June 2022 Data regarding patient demographics, injury mechanisms, procedural details, and outcomes were collected. Descriptive statistics, including frequencies, means, and medians, summarise the data. Results: 172 patients presented with rib fractures to MBH's Emergency Department. 94 cases (55%) were trauma activations. SSRF procedures were performed in five cases (2.9%). Mean age of patients undergoing SSRF was 56 years, with a predominance of male patients. Median length of stay in the intensive care unit postoperatively was 3 days, with extubation within 48 hours. One morbidity and mortality were reported, unrelated to surgery-specific complications. Discussion: Challenges in implementing SSRF at MBH include equipment availability, limited surgical experience, and patient positioning complexities. Initiatives such as upskilling surgeons, developing local guidelines, and enhancing multidisciplinary teamwork are undertaken. Future directions include expanding case numbers, refining surgical techniques, and fostering collaboration with high-volume centres. Conclusion: Despite challenges, MBH has demonstrated capability in managing rib fractures and performing SSRF. By addressing challenges and implementing strategies for improvement, MBH aims to optimise SSRF procedures, positioning itself as a reliable centre for thoracic surgery in the region.