Box 1: Risk factors for rib fractures
Risk factorApproximate risk
Metastatic breast cancer30%3
Aromatase inhibitor therapy1.4%–11.0% (any fracture)7
Radiotherapy of breast or chest wall3.6%–4.5%6
Prolonged use of bisphosphonates7.4%5
Women aged 83 years or older40%4
Early menopause or ovarian ablation secondary to adjuvant chemotherapyUnknown
Tissue expansion in breast reconstruction using implantsUnknown