ABSTRACT
<p><b>OBJECTIVE</b>To introduce the methods of dacron flap application and its indications in treating fracture of multiple ribs, in order to reduce the incidence of the complications of fracture displacement.</p><p><b>METHODS</b>From September 2006 to March 2008, 12 patients with fracture of multiple ribs were treated with absorbable rib fixed nail and dacron flap. Included 8 males and 4 females,the age was from 22 to 51 years with an average of 38.2 years,the operative time was 2 hours to 3 days after injured. All the patients were closed injury and simultaneously accompanied with significant chest pain and chest tightness. 4 cases with dyspnea, blood in sputum and blood oxygen saturation decreased. The X-ray showed 3 cases of unilateral fracture and 9 cases of bilateral rib fractures and all cases accompanied with hemopneumothorax.</p><p><b>RESULTS</b>All patients were followed up from 2 to 26 months with an average of 8 months. All the fractures healed. According to clinical criteria, pain, breathing, ribs alignment etc. to observe the effect, 10 cases got excellent result, 1 case good, 1 case poor.</p><p><b>CONCLUSION</b>It is safe and effective to use absorbable rib fixed nails and dacron flap for treating fracture of multiple ribs and especially for the patients of osteoporosis, comminuted fracture or oblique fracture.</p>