Materials and Methods: One hundred and eighty patients with chest trauma hospitalized in our thoracic surgery department between August 2018 and December 2019 were analyzed. The effective factors on their recovery to normal respiratory functions were investigated using “Peak Expiratory Flow-meter” (PEF-meter). PEF values were recorded on the first three days of hospitalization and on the 10th, 40th and 70th days after their discharges.

Results: We examined when the chest trauma patients were able to reach a PEFR value of 80% (PEF80) as done in bronchial asthmatics. Pneumothorax, lung laceration, presence of pneumomediastinum and tube thoracostomy were found to delay achieving a PEF80. It was found that the location of the fracture, rather than the number of rib fractures, was effective in improving respiratory functions. Non-smokers were seen to have a higher capacity to return to normal respiratory activity after trauma.

Conclusions: In case of fractures occurring on the anterior and lateral of the ribs and in the situation of the presence of pneumothorax, pneumomediastinum, lung laceration, tube thoracostomy and smoking history pain management and follow-up should be handled more detailed. It should be taken into account that these cases may require longer rest period and disability/incapacity reports should be prepared bearing this in mind. Keywords : peak expiratory flow rate, pneumothorax, pulmonary function test, rib fractures, smoke, thoracic injuries