Differentials
Chest wall contusion
SIGNS / SYMPTOMS
INVESTIGATIONS
SIGNS / SYMPTOMS
Clinical signs and symptoms may be similar to a simple rib fracture.
INVESTIGATIONS
Absence of rib fracture on chest x-ray or chest CT.
Clavicle fracture
SIGNS / SYMPTOMS
INVESTIGATIONS
SIGNS / SYMPTOMS
Point tenderness, swelling, possible deformity and skin wound or tenting at fracture site (though tenting is not common), crepitus (also seen in subcutaneous emphysema e.g., resulting from pneumothorax)
INVESTIGATIONS
Clavicle x-ray series will demonstrate the fractured clavicle, if present. A clavicle CT may be useful in more complex cases.
Consider a CT chest, abdomen and pelvis in the event of a high-energy trauma and/or there is a high degree of suspicion of underlying thoracic injury.
Ultrasound and MRI are usually not required but may be useful in certain circumstances.
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