ReviewSkeletal radiology2024
MRI in suspected chest wall fractures: diagnostic value in work-related chest blunt trauma.
Review in Skeletal radiology, 2024. The graph could read no effect estimate from its abstract, so it casts no vote on the map. Cited by 2 papers.
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The abstract states no effect estimate the extractor could read, or names no intervention and outcome on the map, so this paper lights no cell and moves no belief. It is still indexed, cited and linked below.
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Who cites it
2 citing papers in PubMed, 6 citations in OpenAlex.
- Traumatic fractures of the sternum - typical distribution and need for subgroups within AO and OTA classification system?European journal of trauma and emergency surgery : official publication of the European Trauma Society · 2025Article
- The role of musculoskeletal radiologists in emergency and trauma settings: current and emerging imaging modalities.BJR open · 2025Review
Corrections and comments
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Authors and funding
4 authors at 3 institutions in 1 country.
Funding
No grant is acknowledged in the PubMed record.
Abstract
objectiveTo describe and analyze MRI findings in suspected early fractures of the chest (ribs and sternum) and assess if this technique can add value in occupational medicine. MATERIALS AND
methodsIn this retrospective study, we reviewed 112 consecutive patients with work-related mild closed chest trauma who underwent early thoracic MRI, when there was not a clear fracture on radiograph or when the symptoms were intense and not explained by radiographic findings. MRI was evaluated by two experienced radiologists independently. The number and location of fractures and extraosseous findings were recorded. A multivariate analysis was performed to correlate the fracture characteristics and time to RTW (return-to-work). Interobserver agreement and image quality were assessed.
results100 patients (82 men, mean age 46 years, range 22-64 years) were included. MRI revealed thoracic wall injuries in 88%: rib and/or sternal fractures in 86% and muscle contusion in the remaining patients. Most patients had multiple ribs fractured, mostly at the chondrocostal junction (n=38). The interobserver agreement was excellent, with minor discrepancies in the total number of ribs fractured. The mean time to return-to-work was 41 days, with statistically significant correlation with the number of fractures. Time to return-to-work increased in displaced fractures, sternal fractures, extraosseous complications, and with age.
conclusionEarly MRI after work-related chest trauma identifies the source of pain in most patients, mainly radiographically occult rib fractures. In some cases, MRI may also provide prognostic information about return-to-work.
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