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

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.