Conclusion
A broad amount of literature exists surrounding interventions
in blunt chest trauma. The three treatment
modalities that have significant evidence for their benefits
are surgical rib fixation, epidural analgesia and transdisciplinary
clinical pathways. Collectively, these improve
hospital outcomes including ICU and hospital LOS as well
as patient outcomes including mortality and morbidity in
patients with blunt chest trauma. Systems that address
each component of multidisciplinary care and ensure their
implementation would benefit patient and hospital outcomes.
Further evidence is required in determining the
effectiveness of combining therapies, including mobilisation,
respiratory care and pain management.