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Dr. Andrew Rynne
MD
Dr. Andrew Rynne

Family Physician

Exp 50 years

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Does Fracture In Xephoid In Sternum Cause Hypoxemia?

I have low readings when they check my oxygen level in the doctors office ever since I fell face down 3 years ago, which fractured my xephoid in my sternum and developed pemonia 3 days later. I have never had problems before this fall. I had 13 sites that were injured. I am being told I have Hypoxemia, could this have tHANK yOUbeen caused by the fall. When I fell I lost my breath 2 TIMES. mY e-mAIL IS YYYY@YYYY
Thu, 18 Dec 2014
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Pathologist and Microbiologist,  's  Response
Hello and welcome to HCM,
Fractures of the bones of rib cage can lead to compromise of respiratory functions.
It can decrease the amount of oxygen reaching the lungs and can thus reduce the oxygen saturation.
The amount of carbon dioxide can also increase and thus lead to fast and laboured breathing.
Immediate management consists of maintaining the oxygen saturation.
Thus, you need to consult a pulmonologist or critical care specialist.
The definitive management is reduction and management of the fracture.

Thanks and take care
Dr Shailja P Wahal
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Does Fracture In Xephoid In Sternum Cause Hypoxemia?

Hello and welcome to HCM, Fractures of the bones of rib cage can lead to compromise of respiratory functions. It can decrease the amount of oxygen reaching the lungs and can thus reduce the oxygen saturation. The amount of carbon dioxide can also increase and thus lead to fast and laboured breathing. Immediate management consists of maintaining the oxygen saturation. Thus, you need to consult a pulmonologist or critical care specialist. The definitive management is reduction and management of the fracture. Thanks and take care Dr Shailja P Wahal