A member asked:

Can a broken rib cause a collapsed lung? i fell and broke a rib. am i in danger of getting a collapsed lung?

2 doctors weighed in across 2 answers
Dr. Geoffrey Rutledge answered

Specializes in Internal Medicine

Yes, : Yes, rib fractures can result in a pneumothorax, or collapsed lung. People who fall and break their ribs typically develop multiple rib fractures, rather than just a single rib. The jagged edges of the fractured ribs can disrupt the lining of the lungs (pleura) and can.

Answered 10/3/2016

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Yes: Rare but it can happen with really bad breaks from severe trauma. Mostly -- no.

Answered 1/19/2013

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