Surgical treatment for a fractured or broken rib is often referred to as Surgical Stabilization of Rib Fractures (SSRF). This method uses titanium plates to stabilize rib bones as they heal by holding the ribs in place. It has shown to be a potentially more effective method for rib fracture management than non-surgical conservative treatments.1
Zimmer Biomet currently offers two treatment options for patients that need rib fixation:
RibFix Advantage is a less invasive approach to rib fracture repair. Using a system of metal bridges and posts, this system offers less muscle disruption. The product is designed to fit against the rib’s natural arch, leading to restored stability at the fracture site. Surgery is performed while the patient is asleep under general anesthesia.
The procedure generally follows these steps:
While RibFix Advantage is attached to the inside of the rib, RibFix Blu is a rigid fixation system of metal plates and screws connected on the outside of the rib bone to stabilize the fracture site helping facilitate the healing process.
These plates are used during sternal reconstructive procedures, trauma, or planned osteotomies. Surgery is performed while the patient is asleep under general anesthesia.
The procedure generally follows these steps:
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For printed information on Rib Fixation, call 1-800-874-7711.
Talk to your surgeon about whether Rib Fixation is right for you and the risks of the procedure, including the risk of implant wear, loosening or failure, and pain, swelling and infection. Zimmer Biomet does not practice medicine; only a surgeon can answer your questions regarding your individual symptoms, diagnosis and treatment.