Rib fracture score and protocol
First Claim
1. A method for the treatment of a trauma patient with multiple rib fractures, comprising,determining a rib fracture score derived from the number of rib fractures sustained by the patient, the number of sides on which the patient has sustained rib fractures, and the age of the patient;
- selecting treatment methodologies for the patient based on the rib fracture score; and
treating the patient using the selected treatment methodologies.
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Accused Products
Abstract
Multiple rib fractures in trauma patients are associated with significant morbidity and mortality. Delayed morbidity for patients with rib fractures is often a result of hypoventilation leading to atelectasis, pneumonia and respiratory failure. Pain management was first recognized as an important factor in preventing complications in these patients. Later, management of the respiratory system became more widely recognized as a major factor in, patients'"'"' care. It is now known that patients with multiple rib fractures benefit most from adequate pain control, rapid mobilization, and meticulous respiratory care to prevent complications. A rib fracture score and protocol based on a synthesis of the existing literature is developed. The protocol is directed to decisions about rapid mobilization, respiratory support, and pain management interventions to decrease the length of patients'"'"' stay in intensive care units.
30 Citations
6 Claims
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1. A method for the treatment of a trauma patient with multiple rib fractures, comprising,
determining a rib fracture score derived from the number of rib fractures sustained by the patient, the number of sides on which the patient has sustained rib fractures, and the age of the patient; -
selecting treatment methodologies for the patient based on the rib fracture score; and treating the patient using the selected treatment methodologies. - View Dependent Claims (2, 3, 4, 5, 6)
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Specification