Do simple beside lung function tests predict morbidity after rib fractures?
Document Type
Article
Publication Date
3-1-2017
Abstract
BACKGROUND: We evaluated if incentive spirometry volume (ISV) and peak expiratory flow rate (PEFR) could predict acute respiratory failure (ARF) in patients with rib fractures.
METHODS: Normotensive, co-operative patients were enrolled prospectively. ISV and PEFR were measured on admission, at 24 h and at 48 h by taking the best of three readings each time. The primary outcome, ARF, was defined as requiring invasive or noninvasive positive pressure ventilation.
RESULTS: 99 patients were enrolled (median age, 77 years). ARF occurred in 9%. Of the lung function tests, only a low median ISV at admission was associated with ARF (500 ml vs 1250 ml, p = 0.04). Three of 69 patients with ISV of ≥1000 ml versus six of 30 with ISV(p = 0.01). Other significant factors were: number of rib fractures, tube thoracostomy, any lower-third rib fracture, flail segment.
CONCLUSION: PEFR did not predict ARF. Admission ISV may have value in predicting ARF.
Publication Title
American journal of surgery
Volume
213
Issue
3
First Page
473
Last Page
477
Recommended Citation
Butts, C., Brady, J., Wilhelm, S., Castor, L., Sherwood, A., McCall, A., Patch, J., Jones, P., Cortes, V., & Ong, A. (2017). Do simple beside lung function tests predict morbidity after rib fractures?. American journal of surgery, 213 (3), 473-477. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.amjsurg.2016.11.026