[Rib fractures after chest physiotherapy: a report of 2 cases]

Arch Pediatr. 2006 Nov;13(11):1410-2. doi: 10.1016/j.arcped.2006.06.022. Epub 2006 Aug 21.
[Article in French]

Abstract

The 2000 French consensus conference for acute viral bronchiolitis management underlined the fundamental role of chest physiotherapy. According to Chalumeau and al., rib fractures were found out in 1/1000 children hospitalized for bronchiolitis or pneumonia. However, such complication of chest physiotherapy is exceptional. We report 2 cases with third to sixth lateral rib fractures after chest physiotherapy in infants with bronchiolitis. Despite the rarity of these complications, clinicians must keep in mind this etiology while facing rib fractures in infants.

Publication types

  • Case Reports
  • English Abstract

MeSH terms

  • Acute Disease
  • Bronchiolitis / therapy
  • Humans
  • Infant
  • Male
  • Physical Therapy Modalities / adverse effects*
  • Rib Fractures / etiology*
  • Thorax