Presentation
A GP referral presenting with anterior chest wall pain post fall over a bicycle.
Patient Data
Age: 3 years
Gender: Male
From the case:
Sternal fracture
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There is a buckle involving the anterior cortex of the first sternebra, consistent with a fracture. The fracture does not extend to the posterior cortex. There is no significant overlying soft tissue thickening.
Case Discussion
Sternal fracture is uncommon in children and usually fractured by more minor blunt trauma. Patients with an undisplaced anterior cortical fracture may be safely discharged from the emergency department if there are no other associated injuries.