Flail chest is a serious medical condition that occurs when multiple adjacent ribs are broken in multiple places, leading to a segment of the chest wall becoming detached from the rest of the rib cage. This can result from severe trauma, such as a car accident or a fall. The detached segment moves in the opposite direction to the rest of the chest during breathing, which can impair normal lung function and cause respiratory distress. Symptoms of flail chest include difficulty breathing, chest pain, and visible deformity of the chest wall. Treatment typically involves stabilizing the broken ribs and managing pain, often requiring hospitalization. In severe cases, mechanical ventilation may be necessary to support breathing. Prompt medical attention is crucial to prevent complications and ensure proper recovery.