# Incidental sternal foramen discovered during the evaluation of a traumatic fracture: a case report

## TL;DR

A rare case of a traumatic sternal fracture near a congenital sternal foramen is reported, emphasizing the need for detailed imaging and careful surgical management.

## Contribution

This case report adds to the limited literature on sternal fractures complicated by congenital sternal foramina and demonstrates successful surgical management.

## Key findings

- A 39-year-old male with a traumatic sternal fracture near a sternal foramen underwent ORIF for effective stabilization.
- Detailed imaging is crucial to identify anatomical variations that may influence treatment decisions.
- ORIF provided pain relief and minimized complications in the presence of a sternal foramen.

## Abstract

Traumatic sternal fractures are rare injuries, typically caused by high-energy blunt chest trauma. While most cases are managed conservatively, the presence of congenital anomalies, such as a sternal foramen, can complicate diagnosis and treatment. This case report presents a 39-year-old male with severe retrosternal pain after a motorcycle collision. Imaging revealed a non-displaced oblique sternal fracture adjacent to a sternal foramen. Due to pain severity and fracture location, open reduction and internal fixation (ORIF) was performed with precautions to avoid mediastinal injury. This case highlights the importance of detailed imaging to identify anatomical variations that may influence management. ORIF provided effective stabilization, pain relief, and minimized the risk of complications in the presence of a sternal foramen.