A serial rip fracture is the result of a blunt trauma to the chest. It is usually accompanied by light, gentle breathing. If the thorax is instable a so-called paradoxical respiration can occur. Because of the intensity of the injuries, possible accompanying injuries of e.g. the chest- and abdominal organs should be ruled out.
An atelectasis refers to a ventilation deficit of (a part of) the lung. It can be either due to missing or incomplete ventilation.
