S22.2: Fracture of sternum

A fracture of the sternum or breastbone, represented by ICD-10 code S22.2, is a break or crack in the long, flat bone in the middle of the chest. The sternum connects to the ribs via cartilage and forms part of the body's rib cage, protecting the heart, lungs, and major blood vessels from injury. A sternal fracture is usually caused by direct impact to the chest, often from a road traffic accident or a high-impact fall. Symptoms typically include severe chest pain, tenderness over the area of the fracture, difficulty or pain when taking a deep breath, and sometimes bruising or swelling in the middle of the chest. In some cases, the damage to the sternum can also affect the vital organs it protects. Diagnosis is confirmed through physical examination and imaging studies, such as X-rays or CT scans. The progression of the condition may vary depending on the severity of the fracture and associated injuries.