The recovery time for a sternal fracture is usually three months. During the first two weeks, a hematoma will develop at the fractured end of the sternum. At two weeks, the hematoma is replaced by granulation tissue and a fibrous bone scab connection appears at the fractured end. At four weeks, the fibrous crust is gradually replaced by a bony crust, and the sternal fracture acquires its initial stability. At eight weeks after the fracture, the bony scab is gradually replaced by the Haversian plate, which increases the strength of the fracture. At three months, i.e. 90 days after the fracture, clinical healing can be achieved. During the initial period of one month for sternal fractures, immobilization and protection with sternal and rib straps are recommended to help the fracture heal.