Functional treatment strategy for fragility fractures of the pelvis in geriatric patients

Fragility Fractures of the Pelvic Ring: Analysis of Epidemiology, Treatment Concepts, and Surgical Strategies from the Registry of the German Pelvic Multicenter Study Group

Background: Fragility fractures of the pelvic ring (FFPs) represent a fast-growing entity in geriatric traumatology with increasing incidence worldwide. This study aimed to analyze the epidemiology, treatment concepts, and surgical strategies for FFPs based on data collected by the German Pelvic Multicenter Study Group documented in the German Pelvic Fracture Registry. It is the largest cohort study of its kind. Methods: This retrospective cohort study included patients aged 65 years or older after FFPs, as classified according to the Rommens and Hofmann classification. Data were collected from July 2018 onward and analyzed for demographics; fracture classifications; treatment modalities (operative vs. non-operative); and details of surgery, including timing and choice of implants. Patients after high-energy trauma were excluded. Statistical analyses included descriptive metrics and subgroup comparisons. Results: Among 1242 patients (84% female; median age 83.4 years), FFP Type II was the most common fracture type (50.8%), followed by Type IV (21.1%). Non-operative management was employed in 68.8% of cases, while 30.9% underwent surgery. Surgical intervention was more frequent in higher-grade FFPs (e.g., 72.1% in Type IV). The most common surgical technique for the posterior pelvic ring was percutaneous screw fixation (61.3%), with navigation used in 47.4% of cases. Conclusions: This study highlights the variability in treatment strategies for FFPs, with conservative management predominating in lower-grade fractures and surgical approaches increasingly utilized for more complex cases. The findings underscore the need for standardized, evidence-based guidelines and further research to optimize treatment and long-term outcomes for geriatric patients with FFPs.

Dual-energy CT in diagnosing sacral fractures: assessment of diagnostic accuracy and intra- and inter-rater reliabilities

PURPOSE

Evaluating sacral fractures is crucial in fragility fractures of the pelvis. Dual-energy CT (DECT) is considered useful for diagnosing unclear fractures on single-energy CT (SECT). This study aims to investigate the effectiveness of DECT in diagnosing sacral fractures.

METHODS

Thirty cases with suspected sacral fractures underwent SECT, DECT, and MRI. The exams were evaluated by two groups: three inexperienced surgeons (Group I) and three experienced surgeons (Group E). Diagnoses were made initially using SECT (pre-DECT) and then reassessed including DECT (post-DECT). This process was repeated twice. Presence of fractures was determined based on MRI. Sensitivity, specificity, inter-rater and intra-rater reliability, and diagnostic accuracy were calculated. Diagnostic accuracy was statistically compared between two groups.

RESULTS

Sensitivity was 0.73 in pre-DECT and 0.9 in post-DECT, while specificity was 0.83 in pre-DECT and 0.91 in post-DECT. Sensitivity significantly improved with the addition of DECT (McNemar test: p < 0.001). Intra-rater reliability (Fleiss' kappa coefficient) was 0.44 in pre-DECT and 0.76 in post-DECT. Inter-rater reliability (Cohen's kappa coefficient) was 0.6 in pre-DECT and 0.81 in post-DECT. Diagnostic accuracy was significantly lower in group I than group E in pre-DECT (P = 0.019, 0.048), but there was no significant difference between two groups in post-DECT.

CONCLUSION

Combined use of DECT with SECT improved the detection rate of sacral fractures and enhanced intra-rater and inter-rater reliability. High diagnostic accuracy was achieved regardless of the observer's experience. These results indicate that DECT is a useful imaging modality for diagnosing sacral fractures.

Development and Evaluation of the OF Pelvis Score for Osteoporotic Pelvic Ring Fractures - A Retrospective Assessment of Therapy Recommendations for 107 Patients

The aim of this study was to develop a simple and reliable score which supports decision making between non-operative and operative treatment in patients with osteoporotic pelvic fractures.Between 2018 to 2020, the OF Pelvis Score was developed during a total of 5 meetings of the Working Group on Osteoporotic Fractures of the Spine Section of the German Society of Orthopaedics and Trauma. The OF Pelvis Score as a decision aid between non-surgical and surgical treatment was developed by expert consensus after analysis of numerous geriatric sacral and pelvic ring fractures from several hospitals. Subsequently, retrospective evaluation of the score was performed on consecutive patients from three hospitals.The following parameters were considered relevant to decision making between non-surgical and surgical treatment and were incorporated into the score: fracture morphology using the OF Pelvis Classification, pain status, level of mobilisation, fracture-related neurological deficits, health status, and the modifiers already integrated into the OF Pelvis classification. If the score is < 8, non-surgical therapy is recommended; if the score is > 8, surgical therapy is recommended; if the score is 8, there is a relative indication for surgery. The OF Pelvis Score was then evaluated retrospectively in a total of 107 patients, according to records. The OF Pelvis Score was 8 points in 4 patients (3.7%), all of whom received surgical treatment. Of the remaining 103 patients, 93 received score-compliant therapy (90.3%). Among these, 4 of the patients who did not receive score-compliant care refused the recommended surgery, so the actual therapy recommendation was score-compliant in 94.2%.The OF Pelvis Score can be used to derive a therapy recommendation in many patients in clinical practice. Because of the possible change of clinical parameters during the course of the disease, the score has a dynamic character. In the retrospective evaluation, the recommendations from the OF Pelvis Score were in close accordance with the therapy actually performed.

Does regional implementation of a clinical pathway for older adult patients with pelvic fragility fractures after low-energy trauma improve patient outcomes (PELVIC): a multicentre, stepped-wedge, randomised controlled trial

INTRODUCTION

Patients with pelvic fragility fractures suffer from high morbidity and mortality rates. Despite the high incidence, there is currently no regional or nationwide treatment protocol which results in a wide variety of clinical practices. Recently, there have been new insights into treatment strategies, such as early diagnosis and minimally invasive operative treatment. The aim of this study is to implement an evidence-based and experience-based treatment clinical pathway to improve outcomes in this fragile patient population.

METHODS AND ANALYSIS

This study will be a regional stepped-wedge cluster randomised controlled trial. All older adult patients (≥50 years old) who suffered a pelvic fragility fracture after low-energetic trauma are eligible for inclusion. The pathway aims to optimise the diagnostic process, to guide the decision-making process for further treatment (eg, operative or conservative), to structure the follow-up and to provide guidelines on pain management, weight-bearing and osteoporosis workup. The primary outcome is mobility, measured by the Parker Mobility Score. Secondary outcomes are mobility measured by the Elderly Mobility Scale, functional performance, quality of life, return to home rate, level of pain, type and dosage of analgesic medications, the number of falls after treatment, the number of (fracture-related) complications, 1-year and 2-year mortality. Every 6 weeks, a cluster will switch from current practice to the clinical pathway. The aim is a total of 393 inclusions, which provides an 80% statistical power for an improvement in mobility of 10%, measured by the Parker mobility score.

ETHICS AND DISSEMINATION

The Medical Research Ethics Committee of Academic Medical Center has exempted the PELVIC study from the Medical Research Involving Human Subjects Act (WMO). Informed consent will be obtained using the opt-out method and research data will be stored in a database and handled confidentially. The final study report will be shared via publication without restrictions from funding parties and regardless of the outcome.

TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER

NCT06054165.

PROTOCOL VERSION

V.1.0, 19 July 2022.

Surgical treatment of fragility fractures of the pelvis: short-term outcomes of 42 patients

PURPOSE

The present retrospective study aimed to analyze patient characteristics, perioperative complications, and short-term outcomes of surgery for fragility fractures of the pelvis (FFP).

METHODS

We selected 42 patients who underwent surgery for FFP between October 2019 and October 2022 and could be followed for more than 6 months postoperatively, including one male patient and 41 female patients with an average age of 83.5 (65-96) years. The following demographic data were collected: Rommens classification, surgical method, reoperation rate, implant loosening, perioperative complications, interventional radiology (IVR) indication rate, perioperative blood transfusion indication rate, Parker Mobility Score (PMS) before surgery and at final follow-up, and numerical rating scale (NRS) score before surgery and on day 3 postoperatively.

RESULTS

Rommens classification was as follows: type IIa (n = 2), type IIb (n = 13), type IIIa (n = 8), type IIIc (n = 3), type IVb (n = 13), and type IVc (n = 3). For surgical procedure, 35 patients (83.3%) were successfully stabilized with percutaneous screw fixation alone, and 7 patients further required open plate fixation. Implant loosening was observed in 16 patients (38.1%), including minor cases, and implant removal was required in 1 patient. Minor perforation of the screw was observed as an intraoperative complication in 6 patients; there were no patients with neurological symptoms. At the time of injury, IVR was indicated in 3 patients (7.1%) because of hemorrhage. Thirty patients (71.4%) had medical complications at the time of admission. One patient died due to postoperative pneumonia. Mean PMS before injury and at final follow-up were 6.51 points and 5.38 points, respectively. Mean NRS scores before surgery and on day 3 postoperatively were 5.26 and 3.49, respectively, showing a significant improvement (p < 0.01).

CONCLUSION

We retrospectively reviewed 42 patients who required surgery for FFP. More than 80% of cases could be treated with percutaneous screw fixation, but it is always important to consider hemorrhagic shock at the time of injury and indications for IVR. Implant loosening was observed in 38.1% of patients, including minor cases, and was considered an issue to be improved on in the future, such as by using cement augmentation. A significant improvement in mean NRS score on day 3 postoperatively relative to the mean preoperative score was observed, suggesting that surgery may contribute to early mobilization.

Conservative or operative therapy in patients with a fragility fracture of the pelvis: study protocol for a prospective, randomized controlled trial

BACKGROUND

The incidence of fragility fractures of the pelvis is rising. Whereas the treatment for FFP type I, III, and IV is clear, the optimal treatment for FFP type II remains a topic of discussion. Traditionally these fractures have been treated conservatively. However, there is a shift toward early surgical stabilization with percutaneous screw fixation to reduce pain and promote mobility in an already frail patient population. High-quality evidence, however, is lacking. Therefore, a randomized clinical trial was designed to compare conservative management to early percutaneous screw fixation in patients with type II fragility fractures.

METHODS

This is a monocenter randomized controlled trial. All patients with a FFP type II are screened for inclusion. After obtaining informed consent, patients are randomized between conservative management and surgical stabilization. Conservative management consists of early mobilization under guidance of physiotherapy and analgesics. Patients randomized for surgical treatment are operated on within 72 h using percutaneous screw fixation. The primary endpoint is mobility measured by the DEMMI score. Secondary endpoints are other dimensions of mobility, pain levels, quality of life, mortality, and morbidity. The total follow-up is 1 year. The required sample size is 68.

DISCUSSION

The present study aims to give certainty on the potential benefit of surgical treatment. Current literature on this topic remains unclear. According to the volume of FFP at the study hospital, we assume that the number of patients needed for this study is gathered within 2 years.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

ClinicalTrials.gov NCT04744350. Registered on February 8, 2021.

Evaluation of a treatment protocol based on conservative therapy for fragility fractures of the pelvis

PURPOSE

In an aging society, fragility fractures of the pelvis (FFP) have increased significantly. However, there is no clear consensus on the timing and criteria for transitioning from conservative treatment to surgery for these fractures. Thus, we aimed to investigate the effects of our treatment protocol for FFP based on conservative treatment.

METHODS

We conducted a retrospective study including 74 patients with FFP at our institution between 2015 and 2021. All patients were treated conservatively for the first two weeks. During this period, only wheelchair transfer was allowed. If the patient could not walk after this period, surgery was performed. Fracture type (Rommens classification), walking ability, presence of complications after admission, presence of fracture union, and surgical treatment was investigated. Patients were divided into two groups: a stable group (type I/II) and an unstable group (type III/IV).

RESULTS

Fracture union was achieved in all patients. Thirteen patients developed complications after being admitted to our hospital; seven showed decreased walking ability, and six required surgeries. The stable and unstable groups comprised 47 and 27 patients, respectively. There were no statistically significant differences between the groups regarding the percentage of patients who developed complications or experienced decrease in walking ability. The percentage of patients who required surgery was significantly higher in the unstable group (p < 0.05).

CONCLUSION

Our FFP management protocol was effective regardless of fracture type. It is important to provide a period for careful assessment of instability, and to try to prevent fracture progression.

Conservative versus operative treatment of FFP II fractures in a geriatric cohort: a prospective randomized pilot trial

A clear recommendation regarding treatment strategy of fragility fractures of the pelvic ring is missing. The most typical fracture pattern is a lateral compression type injury with non-displaced fractures of the anterior pubic rami and a unilateral os sacrum fracture (FFP II). We hypothesized that operative treatment would be superior to conservative treatment. From October 2017 to April 2020, a randomized prospective non-blinded trial with n = 39 patients was carried out. Two arms with 17 operative versus 22 conservative cases were created. Inclusion criteria were a posterior pelvic ring fracture FFP type II, age over 60 years and acute fracture (< 3 weeks). Barthel index, pain level (VAS), quality of life (EQ-5D-3L), and Tinetti-Gait Test were determined on admission, at discharge, and after 3, 6, 12 and 24 months. Median follow-up was 12.9 months. The Barthel index (= 0.325), VAS (p = 0.711), quality of life (p = 0.824), and Tinetti-Gait Test (p = 0.913) showed no significant differences between the two groups after 12 months. Two patients switched from the conservative to the operative arm due to persistent immobilization and pain. The one-year mortality rate showed no significant difference (p = 0.175). Our hypothesis that surgical treatment is superior was refuted. No significant benefit was shown in terms of quality of life, mortality and pain levels. The results suggest a more differentiated treatment approach in the future, with initial conservative treatment preferred. A larger multi-center trial is required to confirm these findings.Trial registration: The study was retrospectively registered with the German Clinical Trials Registry (DRKS00013703) on 10/12/2018.

Clinical implications of additional posterior fractures in combined anterior-posterior pelvic ring fractures in elderly patients

OBJECTIVES

Historically, pelvic ring fractures (PRF) are considered to occur predominantly in the anterior ring and therfore to be mechanically stable. Combined anterior and posterior (A + P) PRF are expected to be less mechanically stable and therefore to be associated with higher levels of pain and reduced mobility compared to isolated anterior fractures. The current study investigates the clinical relevance of combined A + P PRF in elderly patients.

METHODS

A prospective multicentre cohort study was conducted in patients >70 years of age with anterior PRF after low-energy trauma diagnosed on conventional radiographs. All patients underwent an additional CT-scan. Patients were divided into two groups; isolated anterior or combined A + P fractures. Patients were treated conservatively with adequate analgesia for at least one week. If patients could not be mobilised after conservative treatment, surgical fixation was performed. Numerical Rating Scale (NRS) pain scores, dependence on walking aids and Activities of Daily Living scores (ADL) were measured at 2-4 weeks, and 3, 6 and 12 months after fracture.

RESULTS

102 patients (age 81.1 ± 7.6 years) were included. Isolated anterior fractures were diagnosed in 25 (24.5%) and A + P fractures in 77 (75.5%) patients. Baseline characteristics did not differ between the two groups. Most patients were successfully treated conservatively and 5 (4.9%) underwent percutaneous trans-iliac, trans-sacral screw fixation after failure of conservative treatment. At 2-4 weeks post trauma, patients with A + P fractures had similar median pain scores (3 (range 0-8) vs. 5 (0-10), p = 0.19) and ADL scores (85 (25-100) vs. 78.6 (5-100), p = 0.67), but were more dependent on walking aids (92.8% vs. 72.2%; p = 0.02) compared to patients with isolated anterior fractures. There were no significant differences at 3 months. At one year follow-up the median NRS pain and ADL scores for both fracture groups were 0 and 100, respectively. Mortality was 10.8%, and additional loss to follow-up was 17.6%.

CONCLUSIONS

The vast majority of elderly patients with PRF have combined A + P fractures. The clinical implications of additional posterior pelvic ring fractures in elderly patients appears to be limited.

Posterior pelvic ring involvement detected with CT taken within a week of admission in acute fragility fractures of the pelvis (FFP) does not predict failure of conservative treatment: a retrospective cohort study

BACKGROUND

Acute low energy pubic rami fractures in the elderly receive primarily conservative treatment. There is debate to what extent posterior ring involvement, which is detected superiorly by CT compared to X-ray, has an impact on outcome and may require modified treatment. We want to demonstrate if posterior ring involvement has an influence on different types of outcome in primarily conservatively treated acute FFP, questioning the usefulness of early CT. Additionally we analysed the early fracture pattern in cases where conservative treatment failed with need for secondary surgery.

METHODS

A retrospective cohort study of 155 consecutive patients, recruited between 2009 and 2016, aged over 65 years diagnosed with an acute LE-PFr on X-ray at the emergency department of a single, level-one trauma centre and receiving an early CT. A set of outcome parameters was compared between patients with an isolated pubic rami fracture (CTia) and patients who had a combined posterior pelvic ring fracture (CTcp).

RESULTS

There were 155 patients of whom 85.2% were female with a mean age of 83 years. 76.8% of patients living at home returned home and 15.5% moved to a nursing home. Mortality rate during hospitalisation was 6.4% and 14.8% at one year post-trauma. Secondary fracture displacement occurred in 22.6%. Secondary surgery was performed in 6 cases (3.9%). Median hospitalisation length of stay was 21 days (range 0 to 112 days). There was no significant association between the subgroups and change in residential status (p = 0.65), complications during hospitalisation (p = 0.75), mortality rate during admission (p = 0.75) and at 1 year (p = 0.88), readmission within 30 days (p = 0.46) and need for secondary surgery (p = 0.2). There was a significant increased median length of stay (p = 0.011) and rate of secondary displacement (p = 0.015) in subgroup CTcp. Secondary displacement had no impact on in-hospital complications (p = 0.7) nor mortality rate during admission (p = 0.79) or at 1 year (0.77). Early CT in patients who underwent secondary surgery showed stable B2.1 lesions in 4 of 6 cases.

CONCLUSIONS

Our data suggest that early CT in patients with conservatively treated acute LE-PFr in order to detect posterior lesions, has limited value in predicting failure of conservative treatment.

Internal fixation of radiation-induced fragility fractures of the pelvis: a case series

BACKGROUND

The optimal treatment for radiation-induced fragility fractures of the pelvis (RI-FFP) is not well evaluated due to the rarity of the condition.

PURPOSE

The aim of this retrospective study was to assess the prevalence of RI-FFP, the radiological and clinical outcomes as well as the complications of patients treated with internal fixation.

METHODS

A retrospective review of our database was performed to identify all surgically treated patients with RI-FFP. Surgical stabilization was recommended for patients with FFP type III and FFP type IV. Surgical stabilization was also recommended after 5-7 days for patients with FFP type II in case of unsuccessful conservative treatment. Demographic data, fracture patterns according to the FFP classification of Rommens and Hofmann, type of treatment and surgery-related complications including nonunion, hardware failure, fracture progression (secondary fracture) or infection were documented.

RESULTS

Among 500 patients with FFP, the prevalence of patients with RI-FFP was 1% (5/500): 5 patients with a median age of 79 years (76-79). The median time interval from radiation to fracture was 18 months (18-24). All of them underwent internal fixation. Two patients experienced surgery-related complications, one due to hardware failure and one due to fracture progression. At median follow-up of 27 months, all fractures had healed. Patients reached a good level of mobility with a median Parker Mobility Score of 7 and suffered moderate pain with a median value of 2.5 on the numeric rating scale.

CONCLUSION

RI-FFP remains a rare injury (1%). In our experience, patients, who underwent surgical treatment, obtained a high level of mobility and a moderate pain score after 2 years of follow-up. Internal fixation can be recommended in RI-FFP. Because bone healing may be impaired due to previous irradiation, highly stable constructs are required to avoid fracture progression or revision surgery.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

III, retrospective study.

Fragility Fractures of the Pelvis: Current Practices and Future Directions

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

To summarise the current evidence and clinical practices for patients with fragility fractures of the pelvis (FFP).

RECENT FINDINGS

FFPs are an increasingly prevalent and recognised problem in the elderly population. Recent evidence indicates they have a significant impact on function, morbidity and mortality. While traditional management of FFPs was predominantly non-surgical, surgical options have been increasingly used, with a range of surgical methods available. To date, limited consensus exists on the optimal strategy for suitable patient selection, and clinical trials in this population have proved problematic. The management of FFPs requires a multi-faceted approach to enhance patient care, including adequate pain control, minimisation of complications and optimisation of medical management. Early return to mobilisation should be a key treatment goal to maintain functional independence. The selection of patients who will maximally benefit from surgical treatment, and the most appropriate surgical strategy to employ, remains contentious.

Perioperative outcome of minimally invasive stabilisation of bilateral fragility fractures of the sacrum: a comparative study of bisegmental transsacral stabilisation versus spinopelvic fixation

PURPOSE

Pelvic fragility fractures have steadily risen over the past decades. The primary treatment goal is the fastest possible mobilisation. If conservative therapy fails, surgical fixation is a promising approach. This study compares the outcome of bisegmental transsacral stabilisation (BTS) and spinopelvic fixation (SP) as minimally invasive techniques for bilateral fragility fractures of the sacrum (BFFS).

METHODS

We performed a prospective, non-randomised, case-controlled study. Patients were included if they remained bedridden due to pain despite conservative treatment. Group assignment depended on sacral anatomy and fracture type. The outcome was estimated by blood loss calculation, cut-seam time, fluoroscopy time, complications, duration of stay at the intensive/intermediate care unit (ICU/IMC), and total inpatient stay. The mobility level at discharge was recorded.

RESULTS

Seventy-three patients were included (SP: 49, BTS: 24). There was no difference in blood loss (BTS: 461 ± 628 mL, SP: 509 ± 354 mL). BTS showed a significantly lower cut-seam time (72 ± 23 min) than SP (94 ± 27 min). Fluoroscopy time did not differ (BTS: 111 ± 61 s vs. 103 ± 45 s). Thirteen percent of BTS and 16% of SP patients required ICU/IMC stay (BTS: 0.6 ± 1.8 days, SP: 0.5 ± 1.5 days) during inpatient stay (BTS: 9 ± 4 days, SP: 8 ± 3 days). Fourteen patients suffered from urinary tract infections (BTS: 8%; SP: 25%). In-patient mortality was low (BTS: 4.2%, SP: 4.1%). At discharge, the BTS group was almost back to the initial mobility level. In SP patients, mobility was significantly lower than before complaints (p = 0.004).

CONCLUSION

Both methods allow early mobilization of BFFS patients. Blood loss can be kept low. Hence, transfusion requirement is correspondingly low. The IMC/ICU and the total inpatient stay are lower than reported in the literature. Both BTS and SP can be recommended as safe and low-complication methods for use in BFFS patients. BTS is superior to SP with respect to surgery duration and level of mobility at discharge.

Additional clinical value of routine CT imaging in fragility fractures of the pelvis: a prospective cohort study (ARTIFACT)

PURPOSE

Additional CT imaging for fragility fractures of the pelvis (FFP) has a high detection rate for concomitant posterior ring fractures (cPRFs). However, the clinical value of routine additional CT imaging is unknown. This study aimed to determine the additional clinical value of routine CT imaging by changes in treatment policy and to establish the predictive value of pain localized around the sacroiliac joint (SIJ) for cPRFs.

METHODS

A prospective cohort study was conducted in a single teaching hospital in the Netherlands between November 2019 and November 2020. Patients were included if they were ≥ 65 years and had a (suspected) FFP on the pelvic radiograph. All patients underwent additional CT imaging. Changes in treatment policies ((possible) surgery, restrictive weight-bearing, hospital admission and outpatient follow-up) after CT imaging were registered.

RESULTS

Fifty-one patients (44 female) were included with a mean age of 80.6 years. Routine CT imaging revealed an additional cPRF in 27 patients (53%). A change in treatment occurred in 29 patients (57%), of which 7 (12%) were managed either surgical or with restrictive weight-bearing. The presence of pain around the SIJ had a sensitivity of 89% and specificity of 61% for detecting a cPRF.

CONCLUSION

Routine additional CT imaging has few direct therapeutic consequences with regards to surgical management or restrictive weight-bearing. These findings may be altered when considering a lower threshold for surgical intervention. The presence of pain around the SIJ was highly predictive for a clinically relevant cPRF.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

NL8011 on 02-09-2019.

Indications for surgical fixation of low-energy pelvic ring fractures in elderly: a systematic review

INTRODUCTION

There are no generally accepted criteria for when and how to fixate osteoporotic pelvic ring fractures in elderly. This systemic review aims to summarize the currently available literature regarding the indications and methods for surgical fixation of fragility fractures of the pelvic ring in elderly patients after low-energy trauma.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The Pubmed and Embase databases were searched using the key words pelvic fractures, geriatric, fragility, osteoporosis, and surgical fixation, and their synonyms. Extracted data including the indication, method of operative fixation, and post-operative outcomes (pain levels, mobility, complications and mortality) were analyzed using descriptive statistics. The studies were too heterogeneous to perform a meta-analysis.

RESULTS

Eleven cohort studies (3 comparative and 8 noncomparative) were included. The methodological quality was poor to moderate; the studies were heterogeneous regarding study design and reported outcomes. In all included studies operative treatment for all fracture types was preceded by a period of conservative treatment comprising physiotherapy-guided full weight-bearing. Time to surgery differed widely. For posterior ring fixation, the majority of the included studies used minimally invasive surgery with trans-iliosacral screws. Five studies described a form of additional fixation of the anterior pelvic ring but did not report the indications.

CONCLUSIONS

Fixation of low-energy pelvic ring fractures in elderly is commonly performed after a period of conservative treatment, with persistent pain as the most frequent indication for fixation. Fracture classification based on stability seems to be of secondary importance. Timing for surgical fixation of the pelvic ring fracture in elderly patients remains diverse. Large well-designed comparative prospective studies and randomized controlled trials are needed to provide clearly substantiated guidelines.

[Minimally invasive stabilization of fragility fractures of the pelvis with transsacral bar and retrograde transpubic screw]

OBJECTIVE

Stabilization of fragility fractures of the pelvis (FFP) using a minimally invasive technique. Insertion of a transsacral rod into the transsacral corridor of S1. Insertion of a retrograde transpubic screw through the superior branch of the pubic bone.

INDICATIONS

Uni- or bilateral displaced fragility fractures of the sacrum or sacroiliac joint. Nondisplaced fractures of the sacrum or sacroiliac joint in case of nonsuccessful conservative treatment. Uni- or bilateral fractures of the superior branch of the pubic bone, which are present in combination with a posterior pelvic instability.

CONTRAINDICATIONS

Fragility fractures of the pelvis, which can be successfully treated conservatively. Absence of transsacral corridor in sacral body S1. Major displacement, nonreducible fractures of the superior branch of the pubic bone. Soft tissue infection at insertion site of implants.

SURGICAL TECHNIQUE

The transsacral bar is inserted under fluoroscopic control from ilium to ilium through the transsacral corridor of the sacral body S1. The retrograde transpubic screw is inserted from the pubic tubercle through the superior branch of the pubic bone past the acetabulum into the body of the ilium.

POSTOPERATIVE MANAGEMENT

An early mobilization with weight bearing of both lower extremities as tolerated by the patient is allowed. Conventional radiographs for control of the position of the implants and fractures are taken after mobilization RESULTS: In all, 64 patients with FFP type II, FFP type III or FFP type IV were stabilized with a transacral bar osteosynthesis in the posterior pelvis. In 32 patients (50%), additional sacroiliac screws were inserted. In 29 patients (45.3%) the transsacral bar osteosynthesis was combined with a transpubic retrograde screw. Median length of hospital stay was 17.5 days. In all, 20 patients (31.3%) suffered general, 10 patients (15.6%) suffered surgery-related complications, and 41 patients (64.1%) were mobile in the room or on the ward at discharge. One-year mortality was 10.9%. The values of the SF‑8 Physical and Mental Component Scores, Parker Mobility Score and Numeric Rating Scale were moderate, yet comparable with the values of patients of the same age.

Inverse association between sarcopenia and displacement in the early phase of fragility fractures of the pelvis

Objectives

Fragility fractures of the pelvis (FFP) commonly occur in the frail elderly. Displacement in the posterior pelvic ring is recognized as the key sign of instability. This study aims to elucidate the relationship between computer tomography (CT)-based frailty markers and displacement of the posterior pelvic ring within 7 days after injury.

Methods

This retrospective study included 49 patients (42 females, 7 males) with FFP (type I 10, type II 24, type III 12, type IV 3). On a CT slice at the level of the third lumbar vertebra, skeletal muscle area, skeletal muscle radiation attenuation, and skeletal muscle index (SMI) were calculated as sarcopenia markers. Osteopenia was measured with trabecular region of interest attenuation technique on the same CT slice.

Results

There was no difference in the demographics between non-displaced and displaced FFP. CT-based data showed that patients with FFP had osteopenia. However, no difference was found between non-displaced and displaced FFP. SMI was higher in FFP types III/IV than non-displaced FFP when CT-based data on sarcopenia were compared among all patients. Female patients with FFP demonstrated similar results. Logistic regression analysis using the demographics and CT-based markers on sarcopenia and osteopenia revealed that SMI was a potential determinant of displacement of the posterior pelvic ring fractures.

Conclusions

There was inverse association between sarcopenia and displacement of the posterior pelvic ring in the early phase of FFP. Relatively preserved muscle may develop displacement in the elderly with osteopenia.

Operative treatment of fragility fractures of the pelvis: a critical analysis of 140 patients

Background

Fragility fractures of the pelvis (FFP) are a clinical entity with an increasing frequency. Indications for and type of surgical treatment are still a matter of debate.

Purpose

This retrospective study presents and critically analyses the results of operative treatment of 140 patients with FFP.

Setting

Level-I trauma center.

Materials and methods

Demographic data, comorbidities, FFP-classification, type of surgical stabilization (percutaneous (P-group) versus open procedure (O-group)), length of hospital stay (LoS), general in-hospital complications, surgery-related complications, living environment before admission, mobility and destination at discharge were retracted from the medical and radiographic records. Patients were asked participating in a survey by telephone call about their quality of life. SF-8 Physical Component Score (PCS) and SF-8 Mental Component Score (MCS) were calculated as well as the Parker Mobility Score (PMS) and the Numeric Rating Scale (NRS).

Results

Mean age was 77.4 years and 89.3% of patients were female. 92.1% presented with one comorbidity, 49.3% with two or more comorbidities. Median length of hospital stay was 18 days, postoperative length of hospital stay was 12 days. 99 patients (70.7%) received a percutaneous operative procedure, 41 (29.3%) an open. Patients of the O-group had a significantly longer LoS than patients of the P-group (p = 0.009). There was no in-hospital mortality. There were significantly more surgery-related complications in the O-group (43.9%) than in the P-group (19.2%) (p = 0.006). Patients of the O-group needed more often surgical revisions (29.3%) than patients of the P-group (13.1%) (p = 0.02). Whereas 85.4% of all patients lived at home before admission, only 28.6% returned home at discharge (p < 0.001). The loss of mobility at discharge was not influenced by the FFP-classes (p = 0.47) or type of treatment (p = 0.13). One-year mortality was 9.7%. Mortality was not influenced by the FFP-classes (p = 0.428) or type of treatment (p = 0.831). Median follow-up was 40 months. SF-8 PCS and SF-8 MCS were moderate (32.43 resp. 54.42). PMS was 5 and NRS 4. Follow-up scores were not influenced by FFP-classes or type of treatment.

Conclusion

Patients with FFP, who were treated operatively, suffered from a high rate of non-lethal general, in-hospital complications. Open surgical procedures induced more surgery-related complications and surgical revisions. Mental and physical follow-up scores are low to moderate. Condition at follow-up is not influenced by FFP-classes or type of treatment. Indications for operative treatment of FFP must be critically examined. Surgical fixation should obtain adequate stability, yet be as less invasive as possible. The advantages and limitations of different surgical techniques have to be critically evaluated in prospective studies.

The FFP-classification: From eminence to evidence

Fragility fractures of the pelvis (FFP) are a clinical entity with a rapidly growing incidence among elderly women. The characteristics of these fractures are different from those appearing after high-energy trauma. In 2013, the comprehensive FFP-classification provided a new framework for analysis of these fractures. It is based on the estimation of loss of stability in the pelvic ring. It is connected with recommendations for surgical treatment, justified by the fact that higher instabilities will need surgical stabilization. Since ist appearance, we can observe an increasing clinical-scientific interest in FFP. Multiple publications use the FFP-classification studying the characteristics of fractures, choice of treatment and outcome. Other studies focus on minimal-invasive techniques for stabilization. The actual knowledge describes higher mortality rates as the reference population, lower mortality rates after operative treatment but for the price of surgery-related complications. Mobility, independency and quality of life are worse than before the fracture, independent of the FFP-classification and the type of treatment. The classification triggered a rapid increase of expertise. This publication gives a detailed overview on the evolution from eminence to evidence.

Operative treatment of fragility fractures of the pelvis is connected with lower mortality. A single institution experience

Background

Fragility fractures of the pelvis (FFP) represent an increasing clinical entity. Until today, there are no guidelines for treatment of FFP. In our center, recommendation for operative treatment was given to all patients, who suffered an FFP type III and IV and to patients with an FFP type IIwith unsuccessful non-operative treatment. We performed a retrospective observational study and investigated differences between fracture classes and management alternatives. We hypothetized that operative treatment may reduce mortality.

Materials and methods

The medical charts and radiographs of 362 patients were analysed. Patient demographics, FFP-classification, length of hospital stay (LoS), type of treatment, general and surgery-related complications, mortality, Short Form-8 physical component score (SF-8 PCS) and mental component score (SF-8 MCS), Parker Mobility Score (PMS) and Numeric Rating Scale (NRS) were documented.

Results

238 patients had FFP type II and 124 FFP type III and IV. 52 patients with FFP type II (21.8%) and 86 patients with FFP type III and IV (69.4%) were treated operatively (p<0.001). Overall mortality did not differ between the fracture classes (p = 0.127) but was significantly lower in the operative group (p<0.001). Median LoS was significantly higher in FFP type III and IV (p<0.001) and in operated patients (p<0.001). There were more in-hospital complications in patients with FFP type III and IV (p = 0.001) and in the operative group (p = 0.006). More patients of the non-operative group were mobile (p<0.001) and independent (p<0.001) at discharge. Half of the patients could not return in their living environment.203 of the 235 surviving patients (86%) answered the questionnaires after a mean follow-up time of 38 months. SF-8 PCS, SF-8 MCS and PMS did not differ between the fracture classes and treatment groups. Pain perception was higher in the operated group (p = 0.013).

Conclusion

In our study, we observed that operative treatment of FFP provides low mortality rates, although LoS and in-hospital complications were higher in the operative group. At discharge, the non-operative group was more mobile and independent. At follow up, quality of life and mobility were comparable between the groups. Further prospective studies are needed to clarify the impact of operative treatment of FFP on mortality and functional outcome.