[Stabilization of the thoracic wall (author's transl)].

The improvement of mechanical respiration by surgical stabilization of the chest wall is an important measure to reduce disadvantages and complications of long time respiratory treatment. Indications are: (1) Chest wall instability with indication for emergency thoracotomy; (2) Respiratory insufficiency mainly caused by chest wall instability; (3) Respiratory insufficiency due to severe laceration of intrathoracical organs with additional chest wall instability as an obstacle for sufficient respirator treatment.