The sternum, commonly known as the breastbone, is a flat bone located in the center of your chest. This article outlines the potential indicators of a sternum fracture, guiding you on when to seek medical attention.
Understanding the Sternum
The sternum is a long, flat bone situated in the middle of the chest, shaped somewhat like a necktie. It connects to the ribs and collarbones through cartilage, forming the front of the rib cage. This bony structure protects organs such as the heart, lungs, and major blood vessels from external trauma. The sternum is divided into three main parts: the manubrium at the top, the body in the middle, and the xiphoid process at the bottom. Sternum injuries often result from direct impacts, such as those sustained in vehicle accidents, falls, or even during cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR).
Key Symptoms of a Broken Sternum
A fractured sternum causes immediate, sharp chest pain at the site of injury, often intensifying with movements like deep breathing, coughing, laughing, or sneezing. The area over the sternum feels tender to the touch, and visible swelling or bruising may appear. In more severe instances, a visible deformity or a “step” where the bone fragments meet might be felt or seen. Some individuals may also experience a grating or crunching sensation, known as crepitus, when the broken bone ends rub against each other. Shortness of breath can also occur due to the pain limiting deep breaths.
When to Seek Medical Attention
If you suspect a sternum fracture, prompt medical attention is important. Any severe pain in the chest after an impact, especially if it worsens with breathing or is accompanied by difficulty breathing, warrants immediate evaluation. While some sternal fractures heal without extensive intervention, the trauma that caused the injury could also have affected underlying organs like the heart or lungs. A medical assessment is important to rule out any associated internal injuries and ensure proper healing.
Medical Diagnosis and Confirmation
Healthcare professionals diagnose a broken sternum through physical examination and imaging tests. During the physical examination, a doctor will assess the chest area for tenderness, swelling, bruising, and any palpable deformities. Imaging tests confirm the fracture and check for other chest injuries. A lateral chest X-ray, taken from the side, is a common initial diagnostic tool, as frontal X-rays may miss the injury. A computed tomography (CT) scan provides more detailed images and is effective in identifying sternal fractures and associated internal thoracic injuries, such as lung contusions or fluid around the heart.
Treatment and Recovery
Treatment for a broken sternum focuses on pain management and limiting movement to allow healing. Most sternal fractures heal on their own, with pain resolution typically taking several weeks to months. Pain can be managed with over-the-counter medications or prescription pain relief as advised by a doctor. Rest is important, but gentle movement and deep breathing exercises are encouraged to prevent lung complications like pneumonia. In rare cases, if bone fragments are significantly displaced, surgical fixation may be required to realign the bone.