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The aim of this study is to analyze the morbidity and mortality in patients with rib fractures in blunt chest trauma. The group of 212 patients with rib fractures was examined. Fractured ribs and associated thoracic injuries were established by imagine methods (plain chest radiographs and computed tomography) and pathological examination. Fractures of one or two ribs were established in 72 (33, 96 %) patients. Multiple rib fractures (≥ 3 ribs) were established in 140 patients. Lung contusion was the most common associated thoracic injury. Mortality, as an outcome of thoracic trauma, was established in 36 (16, 98 %) of patients. The level of mortality was higher in the group of patients, age > 65 years. Lung contusion was main cause of death in patients with fractured ribs. Conclusion. This study has proven that the age over 65 years, bilateral rib fractures and lung contusion are three risk factors for mortality in patients with blunt thoracic trauma.

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