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First rib fracture with compression of the distal roots of the brachial plexus

Fracture de la première côte avec compression des racines distales du plexus brachial

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European Journal of Orthopaedic Surgery & Traumatology Aims and scope Submit manuscript

Abstract

We report a case of traumatic first rib fracture inducing a compression of the distal roots of the brachial plexus. It necessitated a surgical liberation. The mechanisms of these traumatic fractures and of the first rib stress fracture are reviewed, and also the potential neurologic and vascular complications. This diagnosis is essential because this lesion testifies to a violent and serious trauma.

Résumé

Nous rapportons le cas d’une fracture traumatique de la première côte responsable d’une compression des racines distales du plexus brachial, ayant nécessité une libération chirurgicale. Les mécanismes de survenue des fractures traumatiques et des fractures de fatigue sont revus, ainsi que les risques potentiels de complication neurologique et vasculaires. Le diagnostic doit en être posé car cette lésion témoigne d’un traumatisme violent et grave.

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Correspondence to J. Legaye.

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Legaye, J., Lenfant, P. & Charlier, H. First rib fracture with compression of the distal roots of the brachial plexus. Eur J Orthop Surg Traumatol 16, 357–359 (2006). https://doi.org/10.1007/s00590-006-0097-9

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  • DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s00590-006-0097-9

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