CT-lung volume estimates in trauma patients undergoing stabilizing surgery for flail chest

•This is the first-ever study of CT-lung volume estimates in trauma patients undergoing rib fracture stabilization.•Post-operative estimates of CT-lung volumes were significantly increased compared to pre-operative estimates.•Post-operative CT lung volumes strongly correlated to Forced Vital Capacity (FVC) and Total Lung Capacity (TLC).•CT lung volume can serve as a marker for lung function and provide the clinician with information to improve informed decision-making concerning surgery for rib fractures.