Multiple Ribs Fractures and Refusal to Suckle : A Fortuitous Association in a First Day Old Cameroonian Neonate

Fractures of the ribs in the neonate have been reported in literature as due mainly to birth trauma, especially from obstructed labor. Reported cases show an association between fractures of the clavicle and macrosomia. The authors report the case of a newborn with a birth weight of 3.88kg, referred on the first day of life for refusal to suckle.

Strong tactile stimulations during resuscitation for birth asphyxia at were noted. During hospitalization, he presented with episodes of postprandial vomiting for which a plain abdominal X-ray to exclude intestinal obstruction revealed multiple fractures of the posterior sides of the ribs at the median position. Evolution on immobilization and oral administration of paracetamol syrup was excellent with resumption of suckling a few hours after. Control X-rays at three and six weeks, showed complete consolidation of the fractures.

Keywords: Fractures, Ribs, Neonate, Neonatal resuscitation.