Getting your breath back after a flail chest injury
A thoracic trauma surgeon and a respiratory therapist on breathing through recovery
A flail chest means several ribs are broken in a way that leaves part of the chest wall unstable. The blow may also bruise the lung. Breathing can take more work. Pain may make it hard to cough. [1, 2]
In the hospital, care may include oxygen, strong pain relief or help with breathing. Some people need surgery to steady the ribs. A thoracic trauma surgeon checks the structure of the chest. A respiratory therapist helps keep your lungs open and clear. [1, 2]
Know which injuries are still healing
Ask which ribs broke, whether a lung was bruised or collapsed and whether plates were put in. Find out if more chest imaging is planned. If you had surgery, get instructions for your incision, lifting and shoulder movement. Ask whether you still need oxygen or a breathing device. Keep a list of every procedure done on your chest. [1, 2]
Pain control is part of breathing care
Ask for pain relief that allows you to breathe deeply, cough and walk. Practice your breathing routine before you leave the hospital. Gentle coughing while you support your chest can help clear mucus. Short bursts of movement may be easier than one long effort. Don’t wrap your chest tightly unless your team tells you to. Limiting your breathing that way can raise the risk of complications. [1, 2]
When your breathing changes, act
Get emergency care for shortness of breath that’s getting worse, blue lips, fainting or sudden severe chest pain. Contact your team promptly for a fever, discolored mucus or pain that keeps rising. Call too if you can’t breathe deeply even with medicine. These can be signs of infection or another chest problem. Tell any doctor who treats you about your rib fracture pattern and any lung injury. [1, 2]
Questions for your chest team
- Which ribs and which parts of my lungs were hurt?
- What pain and breathing routine should I follow?
- When can I lift, go back to work and exercise again?
Practice a deep breath and supported cough
With your respiratory therapist, show that you can take a deep breath and do a supported cough. Then write down your daily routine. [2]
Sources and further reading
Offered as general education from thoracic trauma surgery and respiratory therapy. Serious changes in breathing need urgent care. Follow the pain, breathing and activity plan your own team set.
Keep learning
Safe Driving Resource Center
Guides, self-checks and articles for drivers, parents of new drivers, and families recovering after a crash.
