Ibuprofen Versus Dexketoprofen in Rib Fractures

The purpose of this study is to compare the pain-relieving effects of two different nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), intravenous ibuprofen and intravenous dexketoprofen, in adults who present to the emergency department with isolated rib fractures. Patients with rib fractures confirmed by a computed tomography (CT) scan and experiencing moderate to severe pain will randomly receive either 800 mg of intravenous ibuprofen or 50 mg of intravenous dexketoprofen. The researchers will measure pain levels using a 100-mm Visual Analog Scale (VAS) before the treatment and at 30, 60, and 120 minutes after receiving the medication to evaluate which drug provides better pain relief. The study will also track how many patients require additional rescue pain medication and record any side effects that occur during the observation period.

Inclusion Criteria: Aged 18 years or older Presence of an isolated rib fracture after blunt thoracic trauma confirmed by non-contrast thoracic computed tomography A baseline Visual Analog Scale (VAS) pain score of at least 50 mm A Glasgow Coma Scale (GCS) score of 15 Stable vital signs Exclusion Criteria: Known NSAID allergy or intolerance Pregnancy or breastfeeding Analgesic or sedative use within the preceding 12 hours Inability to complete VAS assessment because of cognitive or neuropsychiatric impairment Advanced chronic systemic disease