CTICasesSternal Fracture
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Imaging findings
Chest radiograph of a patient with small bilateral pleural effusions. On the lateral view, a new "bump" or divot is noted in the sternum, suggesting a defect. Subsequent inspection of the sternum reveals a mildly comminuted fracture. The patient's history includes a fall a week prior, with physical exam showing ecchymosis and tenderness over the sternum.
Key takeaways
Sternal fractures can be subtle on plain radiographs, especially on the lateral view where a contour abnormality may be the only clue. History of trauma and clinical findings like ecchymosis and tenderness are important correlative findings. Sternal fractures can be challenging to detect on axial CT unless sagittal reconstructions are specifically reviewed.
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