A simplified method for stabilization of flail chest injuries in small animals

Two dogs and one cat with flail chest injuries were treated by a new technique of external thoracic wall stabilization using a single circumcostal suture for each affected rib and a splint device. Application of the splint device was quick and required minimal manipulation of the patient. Stabilization of the flail chest resulted in improved respiration in each animal. The splint device was left in place in two of the animals as the sole means of rib fixation. No evidence of infection or other adverse effects were noted with this technique.