title: Operative stabilization of flail chest using a prosthetic mesh and methylmethacrylate.
abstract: Surgical stabilization of flail chest is a controversial operation, but recent data has shown that selected patients benefit from it. We describe a simple and practical method of operative stabilization of flail chest using a prosthetic mesh and methylmethacrylate anchored to the ribs and sternum. The methylmethacrylate-mesh complex is inexpensive, can be extracted electively as soon as full thoracic stability is achieved, and can be used to stabilize extended chest wall injuries.
authors: Department of Anatomy, Federal University of Rio de Janeiro, Rua Muniz Barreto 584, CEP: 22251-090, Botafogo, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. bjbibas@click21.com.br
authors: Benoit J
authors: BJ
authors: Bibas
authors: Roberto A
authors: RA
authors: Bibas