Definition A rib fracture is a severance of the bony ribs. One or more ribs may break in the course of external force (serial rib fracture). The term rib contusion describes a bruise (technical term: contusion) in the area of the bony ribcage. A contusion of the ribs is usually the result of blunt trauma. … Broken or bruised ribs
Diagnosis – rib fracture or rib contusion? The diagnosis of whether it is a rib fracture or a rib contusion is very difficult to make on the basis of the symptoms, as they are far too similar. Only in persons who do not have any pain despite trauma and obvious impairment of the bony thorax … Diagnosis – rib fracture or rib contusion? | Broken or bruised ribs
Therapy For the actual treatment, it usually makes no difference whether the affected patient suffers from a broken or bruised rib.This is particularly the case if no more than two ribs, which are located on one half of the thorax (so-called rib series fracture), are affected. Irrespective of whether a rib fracture or a rib … Therapy | Broken or bruised ribs
Prognosis The prognosis is very good regardless of whether a rib fracture or rib contusion is present. In most cases, the injury to the bony ribcage heals completely within a period of three to six weeks at the most. The healing time also depends on whether there is only a contusion or an actual fracture. … Prognosis | Broken or bruised ribs