Bony Thorax Case 1 Background

Rib fractures are most commonly caused by blunt trauma.  Lower rib fractures increase the risk for liver or spleen injury due to their proximity. Rib fractures can also occur from vigorous coughing or metastases causing pathologic fractures. Pediatric rib fractures are often from non-accidental trauma, as ribs in children are more flexible and require more force to break.