A<unk>  is a<unk>  of the sternum (the breastbone), located in the center of the chest. The injury, which occurs in 5–8% of people who experience significant blunt chest trauma, may occur in vehicle accidents, when the still-moving chest strikes a steering wheel or dashboard or is injured by a seatbelt. Cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR), has also been known to cause thoracic injury, including sternum and rib<unk> s.<unk> s may also occur as a pathological<unk> , in people who have weakened bone in their sternum, due to another disease process.<unk>  can interfere with breathing by making it more painful; however, its primary significance is that it can indicate the presence of serious associated internal injuries, especially to the heart and lungs.
Sternal fracture
Flail chest
Rib fracture
Pulmonary hematoma
Pulmonary contusion
Thoracic aorta injury
Esophageal rupture
Diaphragmatic rupture