Acute Pelvic Fractures: II. Principles of Management

An End-to-End Geometry-Based Pipeline for Automatic Preoperative Surgical Planning of Pelvic Fracture Reduction and Fixation

Computer-assisted preoperative planning of pelvic fracture reduction surgery has the potential to increase the accuracy of the surgery and to reduce complications. However, the diversity of the pelvic fractures and the disturbance of small fracture fragments present a great challenge to perform reliable automatic preoperative planning. In this paper, we present a comprehensive and automatic preoperative planning pipeline for pelvic fracture surgery. It includes pelvic fracture labeling, reduction planning of the fracture, and customized screw implantation. First, automatic bone fracture labeling is performed based on the separation of the fracture sections. Then, fracture reduction planning is performed based on automatic extraction and pairing of the fracture surfaces. Finally, screw implantation is planned using the adjoint fracture surfaces. The proposed pipeline was tested on different types of pelvic fracture in 14 clinical cases. Our method achieved a translational and rotational accuracy of 2.56 mm and 3.31° in reduction planning. For fixation planning, a clinical acceptance rate of 86.7% was achieved. The results demonstrate the feasibility of the clinical application of our method. Our method has shown accuracy and reliability for complex multi-body bone fractures, which may provide effective clinical preoperative guidance and may improve the accuracy of pelvic fracture reduction surgery.

Evaluating the stability of external fixators following pelvic injury: A systematic review of biomechanical testing methods

INTRODUCTION

This systematic review aims to identify previously used techniques in biomechanics to assess pelvic instability following pelvic injury, focusing on external fixation constructs.

METHODS

A systematic literature search was conducted to include biomechanical studies and to exclude clinical trials.

RESULTS

Of an initial 4666 studies found, 38 met the inclusion criteria. 84% of the included studies were retrieved from PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science. The studies analysed 106 postmortem specimens, 154 synthetic bones, and 103 computational models. Most specimens were male (97% synthetic, 70% postmortem specimens). Both the type of injury and the classification system employed varied across studies. About 82% of the injuries assessed were of type C. Two different fixators were tested for FFPII and type A injury, five for type B injury, and fifteen for type C injury. Large variability was observed for external fixation constructs concerning device type and configuration, pin size, and geometry. Biomechanical studies deployed various methods to assess injury displacement, deformation, stiffness, and motion. Thereby, loading protocols differed and inconsistent definitions of failure were determined. Measurement techniques applied in biomechanical test setups included strain gauges, force transducers, and motion tracking techniques.

DISCUSSION AND CONCLUSION

An ideal fixation method should be safe, stable, non-obstructive, and have low complication rates. Although biomechanical testing should ensure that the load applied during testing is representative of a physiological load, a high degree of variability was found in the current literature in both the loading and measurement equipment. The lack of a standardised test design for fixation constructs in pelvic injuries across the studies challenges comparisons between them. When interpreting the results of biomechanical studies, it seems crucial to consider the limitations in cross-study comparability, with implications on their applicability to the clinical setting.

Pelvic Ring Injuries: Stable or Not?

Pelvic ring injuries occur in varying severity and in vastly different patient demographics. Knowledge regarding which of these injuries require surgical intervention and which can be managed nonsurgically continues to evolve. Previous studies have shown validated criteria for sacral fractures and the posterior ring, explored the role of examination under anesthesia, and other forms of dynamic imaging. Although there is substantial information available, a comprehensive synthesis of this information is lacking. This article provides a comprehensive review of radiographic markers suggestive of stability, discusses treatment strategies, and proposes a treatment algorithm that is easily understood and applicable to not only those with a trauma background but also the general orthopaedic surgeon who will see these injuries frequently while on call.

Surgical stabilisation in equivocal pelvic ring injuries - Into the grey zone

Pelvic ring injuries comprise a spectrum of bony, ligamentous and muscular injuries, described by several common classification systems. However, the majority of injuries lie in areas of intermediate severity, where complexity and variable nature make it extremely hard to define in detail. This fact and associated injuries make it extremely difficult to conduct randomised control trials, with purpose to direct treatment guidelines. Thus, special interest and expertise are required by pelvic trauma surgeons, while surgical indications and fixation methods rely on their experience, at least in part. Namely, a significant grey zone of indication exists. As fixation methods evolve, specifically percutaneous fixation using osseous fixation pathways, some injuries in which morbidity bound with surgical fixation was considered too high relative to its benefits, may be considered eligible for surgical treatment nowadays. Moreover, due to significant progress in the treatment of the acute polytrauma casualties, the survival rate increased over the years, emphasizing the effect of long-term morbidity and functional outcome of pelvic ring injuries. The purpose of this manuscript is to describe the equivocal areas of controversies, hence "the grey zone", and to provide the readership with up-to-date published data. We aimed to collect and detail clinical and radiological clues in the diagnosis of intermediate unstable anterior-posterior compression and lateral compression injuries, and for the selection of treatment methods and sequence. Recent publications have provided some insights into specific injury features that are correlated with increased chance of instability, pain and delay in ambulation. Specific focus is given to the utility of examination under anaesthesia in selected cases. Other publications surveyed the shared experience of pelvic trauma surgeons as for the classification, indication and treatment sequence of pelvic ring injuries. Although the data hasn't matured yet to a comprehensive treatment algorithm, it may serve clinicians well when making treatment decisions in the grey zone of pelvic ring injuries, and serve as a basis for future prospective studies.

The radiographic outcome after plating for pubic symphysis diastasis: does it matter clinically?

INTRODUCTION

Open reduction and internal fixation with plates is the most widespread surgery in traumatic pubic symphysis diastasis. However, implant failure or recurrent diastasis was commonly observed during follow-up. The aim of our study was to evaluate the radiologic findings and clinical outcomes.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Sixty-five patients with traumatic pubic symphysis diastasis treated with plating between 2008 and 2019 were retrospectively reviewed. The exclusion criteria were a history of malignancy and age under 20 years. Radiographic outcomes were determined by radiograph findings, including pubic symphysis distance (PSD) and implant failure. Clinical outcomes were assessed according to the Majeed score at the final follow-up.

RESULTS

Twenty-eight patients were finally included. Nine patients (32%) experienced implant failure, including four (14%) with screw loosening and five (18%) with plate breakage. Only one patient underwent revision surgery. Postoperatively, a significant increase in PSD was observed at 3 months and 6 months. Postoperative PSD was not significantly different between patients with single plating and double plating, but it was significantly greater in the implant-failure group than in the non-failure group. The Majeed score was similar between patients with single plating and double plating or between the implant-failure group and the non-failure group. Body mass index, number of plates, age, and initial injured PSD were not significantly different between the implant-failure group and the non-failure group. Only a significant male predominance was observed in the implant-failure group.

CONCLUSION

A gradual increase in the symphysis distance and a high possibility of implant failure may be the distinguishing features of traumatic pubic symphysis diastasis fixation. The postoperative symphyseal distance achieved stability after 6 months, even after implant failure. Radiographic outcomes, such as increased symphysis distance, screw loosening, and plate breakage, did not affect clinical functional outcomes.

Evolution of the AO Spine Sacral and Pelvic Classification System: a systematic review

OBJECTIVE

The purpose of this study was to describe the genesis of the AO Spine Sacral and Pelvic Classification System in the context of historical sacral and pelvic grading systems.

METHODS

A systematic search of MEDLINE, EMBASE, Google Scholar, and Cochrane databases was performed consistent with the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines to identify all existing sacral and pelvic fracture classification systems.

RESULTS

A total of 49 articles were included in this review, comprising 23 pelvic classification systems and 17 sacral grading schemes. The AO Spine Sacral and Pelvic Classification System represents both the evolutionary product of these historical systems and a reinvention of classic concepts in 5 ways. First, the classification introduces fracture types in a graduated order of biomechanical stability while also taking into consideration the neurological status of patients. Second, the traditional belief that Denis central zone III fractures have the highest rate of neurological deficit is not supported because this subgroup often includes a broad spectrum of injuries ranging from a benign sagittally oriented undisplaced fracture to an unstable "U-type" fracture. Third, the 1990 Isler lumbosacral system is adopted in its original format to divide injuries based on their likelihood of affecting posterior pelvic or spinopelvic stability. Fourth, new discrete fracture subtypes are introduced and the importance of bilateral injuries is acknowledged. Last, this is the first integrated sacral and pelvic classification to date.

CONCLUSIONS

The AO Spine Sacral and Pelvic Classification is a universally applicable system that redefines and reorders historical fracture morphologies into a rational hierarchy. This is the first classification to simultaneously address the biomechanical stability of the posterior pelvic complex and spinopelvic stability, while also taking into consideration neurological status. Further high-quality controlled trials are required prior to the inclusion of this novel classification within a validated scoring system to guide the management of sacral and pelvic injuries.

Examination Under Anesthesia Improves Agreement on Mechanical Stability: A Survey of Experienced Pelvic Surgeons

OBJECTIVES

To assess agreement among experts in pelvic fracture management regarding stability and need for operative repair of lateral compression-type pelvic fractures with static radiographs compared to static radiographs and examination under anesthesia (EUA).

SETTING

Online survey.

PATIENTS/PARTICIPANTS

Ten patients who presented to our level-1 trauma center with a pelvic ring injury were selected. Vignettes were distributed to 11 experienced pelvic surgeons.

INTERVENTION

Examination under anesthesia.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASUREMENTS

Agreement regarding pelvic fracture stability and need for surgical fixation.

RESULTS

Agreement on stability was achieved in 4 (40%) cases without EUA compared to 8 (80%) cases with EUA. Interreviewer reliability was poor without EUA and moderate with EUA (0.207 vs. 0.592). Agreement on need to perform surgery was achieved in 5 (50%) cases compared to 6 (60%) cases with EUA. Interreviewer reliability was poor without EUA and moderate with EUA (0.250 vs. 0.432). For reference cases with agreement, surgeons were able to predict stability or instability using standard imaging in 57 of a possible 88 reviewer choices (64.8%) compared to 82 of 88 choices (93.2%) with the addition of EUA (P < 0.0001).

CONCLUSIONS

EUA increased agreement among experienced pelvic surgeons regarding the assessment of pelvic ring stability and the need for operative intervention. Further research is necessary to define specific indications for which patients may benefit from EUA.

Management of Pelvic Ring Injury Patients With Hemodynamic Instability

Pelvic ring injuries (PRI) are among the most difficult injuries to deal with in orthopedic trauma. When these injuries are accompanied by hemodynamic instability their management becomes significantly more complex. A methodical assessment and expeditious triage are required for these patients followed by adequate resuscitation. A major triage decision is whether these patients should undergo arterial embolization in the angiography suit or prompt packing and pelvic stabilization in the operating room. Patient characteristics, fracture type and injury characteristics are taken into consideration in the decision-making process. In this review we discuss the acute evaluation, triage and management of PRIs associated with hemodynamic instability. An evidence based and protocol driven approach is necessary in order to achieve optimal outcomes in these patients.

A Survey to Assess Agreement Between Pelvic Surgeons on the Outcome of Examination Under Anesthesia for Lateral Compression Pelvic Fractures

OBJECTIVES

To assess agreement among pelvic surgeons regarding the interpretation of examination under anesthesia (EUA), the methodology by which EUA should be performed, and the definition of a positive examination.

DESIGN

Survey.

PATIENTS/PARTICIPANTS

Ten patients who presented to our Level 1 trauma center with a pelvic ring injury were selected as clinical vignettes. Vignettes were distributed to 15 experienced pelvic surgeons.

INTERVENTION

Examination under anesthesia.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASUREMENTS

Agreement regarding pelvic fracture stability (defined as >80% similar responses), need for surgical fixation, definition of an unstable EUA, and method of performing EUA.

RESULTS

There was agreement that a pelvic fracture was stable or unstable in 8 (80%) of 10 cases. There was agreement that fixation was required or not required in 6 (60.0%) of 10 cases. Seven (46.7%) surgeons endorsed performing a full 15-part EUA, whereas the other 8 (53.3%) used an abbreviated or alternative method. Eight (53.3%) surgeons provided a definition of what constitutes a positive EUA, whereas the remaining 7 did not endorse adhering to a strict definition.

CONCLUSIONS

Pelvic surgeons generally agree on what constitutes a positive or negative EUA but not necessarily the implications of a positive or negative examination. There is no clear consensus among surgeons regarding the method of performing EUA nor regarding the definition of a positive EUA.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Prognostic Level IV. See Instructions for Authors for a complete description of levels of evidence.

MRI Evaluation of the Posterior Pelvic Bony and Soft Tissue Injuries With Tile C Displaced Pelvic Fractures in Young Children

BACKGROUND

Disruption through the weak iliac apophysis growth plate is characteristic in unstable pediatric posterior pelvic injuries. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scans would help in the assessment of bony injuries in addition to the trunk and abdominal wall muscles and the posterior sacroiliac and pelvic floor ligaments.

METHODS

All children with displaced pelvic fractures Tile C and open triradiate cartilage between September 2010 and December 2017 who had computed tomography evidence of iliac apophysis avulsion and available MRI scans were reviewed. The paravertebral, anterior abdominal wall and iliacus muscles, and the sacroiliac and pelvic floor ligaments were evaluated.

RESULTS

Eight patients had pelvic MRI scans in addition to the standard computed tomography. All were males and the average age was 7.5 years (4 to 14 y). The iliac apophysis was attached posteriorly to the quadratus lumborum and erector spinae muscles and to the posterior sacroiliac complex. The bony iliac wing lost its connection to the axial skeleton and its muscular attachment to the erector spinae and quadratus lumborum. The iliacus muscle was elevated of the iliac fossa in all cases. The anterior sacroiliac ligaments were disrupted in all while the pelvic floor ligaments were disrupted in 5 patients, intact in 2 and could not be clearly visualized in 1 patient. In 2 patients, anterior abdominal wall muscles were split in 2 layers, the external oblique attached to the displaced bony ilium and the internal oblique and transversus abdominis attached to the iliac crest apophysis. This deep layer was continuous distally with the iliacus muscle. This could be explained by the anatomic arrangement of the thoracolumbar fascia and its middle layer.

CONCLUSIONS

The posterior pelvic ring would be disrupted through the weak chondro-osseous connection between the bony ilium and its well-fixed iliac crest apophysis which is attached to the posterior sacroiliac complex, paravertebral muscles, and the posterior and middle layers of the thoracolumbar fascia. This is central to our understanding for the pathomechanics of those injuries and for operative fixation.

Pelvic circumferential compression devices for prehospital management of suspected pelvic fractures: a rapid review and evidence summary for quality indicator evaluation

BACKGROUND

Pelvic fractures, especially when unstable, may cause significant haemorrhage. The early application of a pelvic circumferential compression device (PCCD) in patients with suspected pelvic fracture has established itself as best practice. Ambulance services conduct corresponding performance measurement. Quality indicators (QIs) are ideally based on high-quality evidence clearly demonstrating that the desirable effects outweigh the undesirable effects. In the absence of high-quality evidence, best available evidence should be combined with expert consensus.

OBJECTIVES

The aim of the present study was to identify, appraise and summarize the best available evidence regarding PCCDs for the purpose of informing an expert panel tasked to evaluate the validity of the following QI: A patient with suspected pelvic fracture has a PCCD applied.

METHODS

A rapid review of four databases was conducted to identify relevant literature published up until 9 June 2020. Systematic reviews, experimental, quasi-experimental and observational analytic studies written in English were included. One author was responsible for study selection and quality appraisal. Data extraction using a priori extraction templates was verified by a second reviewer. Study details and key findings were summarized in tables.

RESULTS

A total of 13 studies were assessed to be eligible for inclusion in this rapid review. Of these, three were systematic reviews, one was a randomized clinical trial (crossover design), two were before-after studies, and seven were retrospective cohort studies. The systematic reviews included mostly observational studies and could therefore not be considered as high-level evidence. Overall, the identified evidence is of low quality and suggests that PCCD may provide temporary pelvic ring stabilization and haemorrhage control, although a potential for adverse effects exists.

CONCLUSION

Given the low quality of the best available evidence, this evidence would need to be combined with expert consensus to evaluate the validity of a related quality indicator before its implementation.

Pelvic Ring Fracture During a Professional Surfing Event at the Banzai Pipeline

We present a case of a 32-y-old male professional surfer who sustained an isolated pelvic ring fracture after wiping out on a large wave and striking the ocean floor during a world championship tour surfing competition in Hawaii. The surfer was rescued by the water patrol lifeguards, evaluated by onsite medical staff, and stabilized for transfer and subsequent surgical management. As surfing and surfing competitions become increasingly popular, medical staff and event organizers must be aware of the possibility for severe, life-threatening injuries during surfing events. Although infrequent, staff must be prepared to manage these injuries, including immediate resuscitation, stabilization, analgesia, and transfer to definitive care. We hope this case encourages not only surf event organizers and medical staff, but also staff of all professional and recreational water sports, to increase their preparedness to stabilize and treat both life-threatening and minor injuries. Expeditious and appropriate treatment of an injured athlete has the potential to decrease morbidity and mortality while maximizing the athletes' functional outcome after injury.

Sciatic Nerve Palsy After Distal Femoral Traction for Vertically Unstable Pelvic Fracture in a Neurologically Intact Patient

Vertically unstable fractures of the pelvis require a notable amount of energy to cause disruption of the posterior elements of the pelvic ring. Superior migration of the hemipelvis demonstrates the inherent instability of this fracture pattern. Surgical fixation is required in most cases, but while resuscitation efforts are underway, placing the patient in skeletal traction to reduce the hemipelvis is often recommended. Although skeletal traction has been described in many sources, no consensus exists on the amount of weight that should be used. This has led to anecdotal recommendations that vary between institutions. Without clear guidelines for treatment, a vertically translated hemipelvis was overreduced and subsequently sustained a sciatic nerve palsy in a patient who was neurologically intact on presentation. We aim to describe a rare complication of skeletal traction and propose a treatment algorithm to reduce the incidence of future complications.

Current Trends in the Surgical Treatment of Open-Book Pelvic Ring Injuries: An International Survey Among Experienced Trauma Surgeons

INTRODUCTION

In the open-book, rotationally unstable (OTA/AO type 61-B1.1) pelvic ring injury, the posterior sacroiliac complex is believed to remain intact. Therefore, anterior ring stabilization alone has been the standard treatment recommendation. However, treatment failures using this method have caused a reconsideration of this management strategy. Anterior plus posterior fixation is the main alternative. In the absence of any specific new guidelines, the choice of treatment currently relies on the preference of the treating surgeon. The objective of this survey was to determine the relative use of anterior plus posterior fixation, as opposed to the standard anterior fixation alone, for the treatment of open-book pelvic ring injuries.

METHODS

An international group of 176 practicing trauma surgeons experienced in pelvic ring fracture fixation participated in an AO Foundation survey asking for their preferred standard surgical fixation (anterior alone or anterior plus posterior combined) for OTA/AO type 61-B1.1 open-book pelvic fractures.

RESULTS

Anterior plate fixation alone (group 1) was preferred by 56% of the survey participants, and combined anterior plus posterior fixation (group 2) was preferred by 44%. Statistical analysis revealed that group 1 participants were significantly older than group 2 participants (P = 0.03) and had more years of surgical experience (P = 0.02).

CONCLUSIONS

Concern regarding the inadequacy of anterior fixation alone has led many surgeons, especially those more recently in practice, to add posterior fixation, despite limited data to determine its indications. No doubt the OTA/AO type B 1.1 pelvic ring disruption actually represents a wide spectrum of injury. Further study is needed to determine the best fixation method.

Biplanar Posterior Pelvic Fixator for Unstable Sacral Fractures: A New Fixation Technique

Fixation of comminuted vertically unstable sacral fractures continues to be a surgical dilemma. Although triangular osteosynthesis is a good construct and resists vertical translation, complications still occur. Herein, we introduce a new biplanar fixation technique, using segmental spinal instrumentation as an alternative to triangular osteosynthesis. This technique is remarkably valuable in cases with sacral morphology and/or complex fracture patterns that preclude safe percutaneous iliosacral screw insertion.

Early Experience with Reduction of Unstable Pelvic Fracture Using a Computer-Aided Reduction Frame

Purpose

The optimal closed reduction technique for unstable pelvic fractures remains controversial. The purpose of this study is to verify the effectiveness and report early experiences with the reduction of unstable pelvic fractures using a computer-aided pelvic reduction frame.

Methods

From January 2015 to August 2016, a total of 10 patients with unilateral unstable pelvic fractures were included in this study. The surgical reduction procedure was based on the protocol of the computer-aided pelvic reduction frame that we proposed in a previous work. The quality of the reductions achieved using this system was evaluated with residual translational and rotational differences between the actual and virtual reduction positions of pelvis. The duration of the operation was recorded for quality control.

Results

The mean times required to set up the frame, to complete the virtual surgery simulation, and to reduce the unstable pelvic fractures were 10.3, 20.9, and 7.5 min, respectively. The maximum residual translational and rotational displacements were less than 6.5 mm and 3.71 degrees, respectively.

Conclusions

This computer-aided reduction frame can be a useful tool for the speedy and accurate reduction of unstable pelvic fractures. Further clinical studies should be conducted with larger patient samples to verify its safety and efficacy.

Does Posterior Fixation of Partially Unstable Open-Book Pelvic Ring Injuries Decrease Symphyseal Plate Failure? A Biomechanical Study

OBJECTIVE

Recent clinical study suggests an advantage to adding an iliosacral screw to the anterior fixation construct for anteroposterior compression type-2 (OTA/AO type 61-B1), partially unstable open-book pelvic ring injuries. Others have described stress examination to determine any required supplemental fixation. However, biomechanical studies investigating iliosacral fixation requirements for this injury are lacking. Our objective was to determine whether adding an iliosacral screw to symphyseal plate fixation decreases displacement in a well-defined open-book pelvic ring injury model.

METHODS

An open-book pelvic ring injury was created in 10 human cadaveric pelves by unilaterally releasing the sacrospinous, sacrotuberous, and anterior sacroiliac ligaments plus transection of the pubic symphysis, approximating the classically described anteroposterior compression type-2 (APC-2) injury. Specimens were divided into 2 groups: (1) symphyseal plating and (2) plating plus an iliosacral screw. Using a standard bilateral stance model loaded at 550 N, displacement measurements were obtained at 210,000 and 500,000 cycles.

RESULTS

Three specimens failed before 210,000 cycles because of technical errors and were excluded from analysis. For the remaining 7, there was no significant difference in displacement between the 2 groups, and none sustained implant failure. Post hoc analysis showed that a large sample size (45/group) would be required to detect any difference with 80% power, indicating a small effect size with limited clinical application.

CONCLUSIONS

Adding an iliosacral screw to the symphyseal plate fixation does not provide improved biomechanical outcome in classically described APC-2 injuries. Clinically, stress examination may be useful to determine the need for supplemental posterior fixation in APC-2 injuries.

Evaluation of symphysis pubis and sacroiliac joint distances in skeletally immature patients: A computerized tomography study of 1020 individuals

OBJECTIVE

The aim of this study was to create a reference about normal pubic symphysis and sacroiliac joint widths of children and adolescents.

METHODS

A total of 1020 computerized tomography axial scans of patients without pelvic injury between 2 and 18 year-old were studied. The narrowest width of pubic symphysis and bilateral sacroiliac joints were measured.

RESULTS

The average pubic symphyseal width at 2 years old boys was 6.35 ± 1.06 mm (4.88-9.13 mm). The average of right and left sacroiliac joints' widths at 2 years old boys was 4.56 ± 0.65 mm (3.59-6.07 mm) and 4.58 ± 0.66 mm (3.44-5.74 mm), respectively. The average pubic symphyseal width of 2 years old girls was 5.85 ± 1.14 mm (4.06-8.20 mm). The average of right and left sacroiliac joints' widths at 2 years old girls was found 4.36 ± 0.56 mm (3.50-5.37 mm) and 4.42 ± 0.59 mm (3.58-5.73 mm), respectively. The average pubic symphyseal width at 18 years old boys was found 3.68 ± 1.30 mm (1.90-5.79 mm). The average of right and left sacroiliac joints' widths at 18 years old boys was found 1.97 ± 0.21 mm (1.73-2.41 mm) and 2.04 ± 0.30 mm (1.70-2.65 mm), respectively. The average pubic symphyseal width at 18 years old girls was 3.92 ± 0.52 mm (2.97-4.76 mm). The average of right and left sacroiliac joints' widths at 18 years old girls was found 2.34 ± 0.40 mm (1.58-3.34 mm) and 2.33 ± 0.37 mm (1.58-3.10 mm), respectively.

CONCLUSION

Our results suggest that one should be suspicious about pelvic injury if the width of pubic symphysis is over 10 mm and width of sacroiliac joint is over 8 mm especially in patients younger than 10 years-old.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Level III Diagnostic study.

Computed tomography-based three-dimensional visualisation of bone corridors and trajectories for screws in open reduction and internal fixation of symphysis diastasis: a retrospective radiological study

INTRODUCTION

Typical stabilisation of pelvic open book injuries consists of plate fixation of the symphysis. No previous literature has been published about the evaluation of screw placement and their trajectory with four oblique 4.5 mm screws using a four-hole plate in symphysis diastasis. The aim of this study was to define insertion points and angles of trajectory for crossed screw placement regardless of any plate design based on an analysis of three-dimensional computed tomography data sets.

METHODS

One hundred human pelvic CT data sets were collected. Unilateral and bilateral placements of crossed 4.5 mm screws were simulated. Primary outcome measure was successful simulated screw placement without cortical breach. Secondary outcome measures included the anatomical measurements of the screw positions.

RESULTS

Simulated screw placement of two oblique screws on each side of the pubic symphysis without cortical breach was achieved in all (100 %) cases. There were a total of 400 screw simulations. Medial screws were longer, lateral screws had higher coronal angles, and the distance between both screws was higher on the right side (p < 0.001 each). The lengths of the right lateral, right medial, left lateral, and left medial screws were 44.9, 65.8, 45.4, and 67.4 mm, respectively. The sagittal angles to the dorsal surface area of the pubic rami were 10.5°, 11.1°, 9.0°, and 11.0°. The coronal angles to the vertical axis of the symphysis measured 39.5°, 16.0°, 33.8°, and 16.8°. The distances between these screws and the medial edge of the pubic crest were 33.5, 8.6, 29.5, and 7.3 mm. Furthermore, certain sex- and side-related differences were noted.

CONCLUSIONS

This series provides results about the feasibility and a detailed anatomical description of crossed screw placement. This is of special interest in pelvic surgery for choosing the entry points, safe screw channel parameters, and trajectories.

Immediate percutaneous sacroiliac screw insertion for unstable pelvic fractures: is it safe enough?

OBJECTIVES

The purpose of this study was to compare the results of immediate and delayed percutaneous sacroiliac screws surgery for unstable pelvic fractures, regarding technical results and complication rate.

DESIGN

Retrospective study.

SETTING

The study was conducted at the Soroka University Medical center, Beer Sheva, Israel, which is a level 1 trauma Center.

PATIENTS

108 patients with unstable pelvic injuries were operated by the orthopedic department at the Soroka University Medical Center between the years 1999-2010. A retrospective analysis found 50 patients with immediate surgery and 58 patients with delayed surgery. Preoperative and postoperative imaging were analyzed and data was collected regarding complications.

INTERVENTION

All patients were operated on by using the same technique-percutaneous fixation of sacroiliac joint with cannulated screws.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASUREMENTS

The study's primary outcome measure was the safety and quality of the early operation in comparison with the late operation.

RESULTS

A total of 156 sacroiliac screws were inserted. No differences were found between the immediate and delayed treatment groups regarding technical outcome measures (P value = 0.44) and complication rate (P value = 0.42).

CONCLUSIONS

The current study demonstrated that immediate percutaneous sacroiliac screw insertion for unstable pelvic fractures produced equally good technical results, in comparison with the conventional delayed operation, without additional complications.

The Outcome of Complex Pelvic Fracture after Internal Fixation Surgery

Introduction: Complex pelvic fracture, which has a very high mortality and even higher morbidity, needs internal fixation surgery as an integral part for its management. It was necessary to conduct a study regarding outcome of complex pelvic fractures after internal fixation surgery. Material & Method: Twenty-six patients with complex pelvic fractures that had been treated with internal fixation surgery during 2011-2014 were enrolled. These patients had an open pelvic fractures or Tile type B or C pelvic fracture who had undergone internal fixation surgery with at least 6 months follow-up. Evaluation of the morbidity and functional scoring was performed using Majeed and Hannover Score. Results and Discussions: Average of age was 31 years old and follow up time was 25 months. There were 7 patients with open pelvic fracture and 19 with closed fracture. Excellent Majeed Score were found on 78.6% cases in Tile B fractures and 50% in Tile C. Good Hannover Score was found in 64.3% Tile B cases and 80% Tile C cases. Fracture type was statistically insignificant with acquired sexual dysfunction (p>0.05), but significant with the chronic pain (p=0,.017). We also found that urogenital injury is associated with sexual dysfunction (p=0.005). Conclusions: The outcome of complex pelvic fracture after internal fixation surgery was excellent. More than 90% patients got an excellent and good result on Majeed Score, and also very good and good result on Hannover Score.

Pelvic ring injuries: Surgical management and long-term outcomes

Pelvic ring injuries present a therapeutic challenge to the orthopedic surgeon. Management is based on the patient's physiological status, fracture classification, and associated injuries. Surgical stabilization is indicated in unstable injury patterns and those that fail nonsurgical management. The optimal timing for definitive fixation is not clearly defined, but early stabilization is recommended. Surgical techniques include external fixation, open reduction and internal fixation, and minimally invasive percutaneous osteosynthesis. Special considerations are required for concomitant acetabular fractures, sacral fractures, and those occurring in skeletally immature patients. Long-term outcomes are limited by lack of pelvis-specific outcome measures and burden of associated injuries.

Pelvic ring injuries: Emergency assessment and management

Pelvic ring injuries are associated with significant morbidity and mortality. Understanding the anatomy of the pelvic ring is essential for accurate diagnosis and treatment. A systematic approach taking into account the mechanism of injury, physical examination, and radiographic assessment is important to quickly identify unstable pelvic disruptions and associated injuries. Because the pelvis is a ring structure, isolated pubic rami fractures on plain radiographs are unusual and should warrant careful evaluation for posterior pelvic disruption with computed tomography. Hemorrhagic shock can occur in about 10% of pelvic ring injuries. Immediate recognition and treatment of this life-threatening condition is critical in emergency management. In addition to fluid resuscitation and blood transfusion, circumferential wrapping, angiographic embolization, laparotomy with pelvic packing, and external fixation can be important life-saving adjuncts in the setting of hemodynamic instability.

The L5 transverse process fracture revisited. Does its presence predict the pelvis fracture instability?

BACKGROUND

The presence of a L5 transverse process fracture is reported in many texts to be a marker of pelvis fracture instability. There is paucity of literature to support this view. Only two previous studies have been performed on this subject with statistical analysis.

METHODS

We conducted a retrospective cross-sectional review of all abdominopelvic CT scans performed for blunt abdominal trauma in a Level 1 Trauma Unit between January 2012 and August 2013. A total of 203 patients met our inclusion criteria. Fifty four (54) of these patients had an associated pelvis fracture.

RESULTS

Of the 54 patients with pelvis fractures 26 (48%) had an unstable fracture (AO Type B and C) and 28 (52%) had a stable pelvis fracture (AO Type A). Five (19%) of the 26 patients with an unstable pelvis fracture had an associated L5 transverse process fracture. This association was not statistically significant (P=0.724). Seven (12%) of the 28 patients with a stable fracture pattern had an associated L5 transverse process fracture. Three patients (2%) had an L5 transverse fracture in the absence of a demonstrable pelvis fracture. The relative risk of an unstable pelvis fracture in the presence of a L5 transverse process fracture is 1.2 (CI 0.6 2.3).

CONCLUSIONS

The presence of an L5 transverse process fracture on an abdominopelvic CT scan is strongly associated with an underlying pelvis fracture (P<0.001). Statistically, its presence however does not strongly predict instability (P=0.724). The latter finding differs from the previously published studies.

Unstable paediatric pelvic injuries: the patho-anatomical patterns of pelvic ring failure and the role of avulsion of the iliac apophysis

Unstable pelvic injuries in young children with an immature pelvis have different modes of failure from those in adolescents and adults. We describe the pathoanatomy of unstable pelvic injuries in these children, and the incidence of associated avulsion of the iliac apophysis and fracture of the ipsilateral fifth lumbar transverse process (L5-TP). We retrospectively reviewed the medical records of 33 children with Tile types B and C pelvic injuries admitted between 2007 and 2014; their mean age was 12.6 years (2 to 18) and 12 had an immature pelvis. Those with an immature pelvis commonly sustained symphyseal injuries anteriorly with diastasis, rather than the fractures of the pubic rami seen in adolescents. Posteriorly, transsacral fractures were more commonly encountered in mature children, whereas sacroiliac dislocations and fracture-dislocations were seen in both age groups. Avulsion of the iliac apophysis was identified in eight children, all of whom had an immature pelvis with an intact ipsilateral L5-TP. Young children with an immature pelvis are more susceptible to pubic symphysis and sacroiliac diastasis, whereas bony failures are more common in adolescents. Unstable pelvic injuries in young children are commonly associated with avulsion of the iliac apophysis, particularly with displaced SI joint dislocation and an intact ipsilateral L5-TP.

Orthopedic emergencies: a practical emergency department classification (US-VAGON) in pelvic fractures

Trauma is one of the leading causes of death before the age of 40 years and approximately 5% of patients with trauma who require hospital admission have pelvic fractures. This article updates the emergency department classification of pelvic fractures first described in 2000. This information is of practical value to emergency physicians in identifying the potential vascular, genitourinary, gastrointestinal, orthopedic, and neurologic complications and further assists them in the initial evaluation and treatment of patients with pelvic fractures.

Ligamentous contributions to pelvic stability in a rotationally unstable open-book injury: a cadaver study

INTRODUCTION

Due to the orientation of the sacroiliac joint (SIJ), as the symphysis widens in an open-book pelvic ring disruption, it should displace inferiorly. The purposes of this study were to reconfirm this inferior displacement and to evaluate the relative contributions of the pubic symphysis (PS), the sacrotuberous/sacrospinous ligament complex (STL/SSL) and the anterior sacroiliac ligament (ASIL) to pelvic ring stability in a rotationally unstable open-book injury.

METHODS

For each of 6 cadaver pelves, the right hemipelvis was fixed to a table and the PS was sectioned. Under fluoroscopy, a manual external rotational force was then applied through the unfixed, left ilium. At the point of maximal displacement, a permanent AP image was obtained. With magnification corrected, horizontal (H) and vertical (V) displacements were measured. The pelves were then divided into two groups of three each. In Group 1, the PS release was followed by sectioning of the STL/SSL, and then the ASIL. In Group 2, the PS release was followed by sectioning of the ASIL and then the STL/SSL. The above described technique of manual manipulation and radiographic measurement was repeated after each stage of ligament release.

RESULTS

The displacement after initial PS sectioning was not significantly different when comparing Group 1 to Group 2. In both groups, a significant and progressive increase in displacement was noted when the PS (H and V; p<0.05) and ASIL (H and V; p<0.05) were sectioned. However, there was no significant change with SSL/STL sectioning in either group. Vertical displacements were all directed inferiorly.

CONCLUSIONS

The PS and ASIL are important in maintaining pelvic ring external rotational stability. However, the SSL/STL has little, if any, effect in this regard. Due to the orientation of the SIJ, external rotation of the hemipelvis, as in open-book injury, will show inferior vertical, as well as horizontal, displacement on the AP radiograph, despite the PSIL being intact.

Magnetic resonance imaging for the evaluation of ligamentous injury in the pelvis: a prospective case-controlled study

OBJECTIVES

Management of external rotation pelvic ring disruptions is based on which ligaments are disrupted within the pelvis. We hypothesized that magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) can evaluate the ligaments of the pelvic ring and differentiate injured from uninjured pelves.

DESIGN

Prospective cohort study.

SETTING

Level I trauma center.

PATIENTS

Twenty-one patients with 25 acute external rotation injuries of the hemipelvis; control group of 26 patients without pelvic ring injury.

INTERVENTION

All patients underwent the same MRI protocol reviewed by 1 musculoskeletal radiologist.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES

Integrity of 5 structures: sacrospinous, sacrotuberous, anterior sacroiliac, and posterior sacroiliac ligaments and pelvic floor musculature.

RESULTS

Visualization of sacrospinous, sacrotuberous, anterior sacroiliac, and posterior sacroiliac ligaments, and pelvic floor musculature was possible for 91%, 100%, 98%, 91%, and 100%, respectively, of all studied structures. No injuries were identified in control group patients in contrast to ligament injury observed with all injured pelves (0% versus 100%; P < 0.0001). Observed relationship of ligament injury to pelvic injury type generally agreed with the Young-Burgess classification system, with the important exception that patients with anterior-posterior compression type II injuries had damage to the sacrospinous ligament in only 50% of the cases.

CONCLUSIONS

Ligamentous anatomy and injury about the pelvic ring appears to be easily evaluated with MRI, arguing that there may be a role for this imaging modality in managing these cases. Tearing of the sacrospinous ligament is variable among anterior-posterior compression type II injuries, arguing that the injury pattern can be subdivided into those with and without sacrospinous ligament tears.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Diagnostic Level II. See Instructions for Authors for a complete description of levels of evidence.

What are the patterns of injury and displacement seen in lateral compression pelvic fractures?

BACKGROUND

Lateral compression (LC)-type pelvic fractures encompass a wide spectrum of injuries. Current classification systems are poorly suited to help guide treatment and do not adequately describe the wide range of injuries seen in clinical practice.

QUESTIONS/PURPOSES

We therefore (1) defined the spectrum of injuries that compose LC fractures with respect to both anterior and posterior ring injuries, with particular focus on the morphology of sacral fractures, and (2) identified fracture patterns associated with displacement at presentation.

METHODS

We retrospectively reviewed 318 LC pelvic fractures. Displacement of the anterior pelvic ring was identified and measured on plain radiographs and posterior displacement was identified by CT.

RESULTS

All 318 patients had an anterior injury and all but 13 (4%) had a posterior injury; 263 of the 318 fractures (87%) included a sacral fracture, with 162 of 318 (51%) having an anterior incomplete sacral fracture, 53 (17%) a complete simple fracture, and 48 (15%) a complete comminuted fracture. Forty-two of 318 (13%) had a crescent fracture. One hundred six of 318 (33%) were displaced at presentation. There was a higher incidence of initial displacement observed in fractures including bilateral rami fractures, a comminuted sacral fracture, or a crescent fracture.

CONCLUSIONS

LC pelvic fractures represent a heterogeneous group of injuries with a wide range of associated fracture patterns. In particular, there is a wide range of fracture types represented by injuries classified as LC1 (involving any sacral fracture). Fractures with more complex sacral fractures, crescent fractures, or bilateral pubic rami fractures tend to have higher degrees of initial displacement.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Level IV, diagnostic study. See Instructions for Authors for a complete description of levels of evidence.

Ureteral injury after percutaneous iliosacral fixation: a case report and literature review

We report a case of right ureter injury in an 11-year-old girl after a percutaneous iliosacral screwing with non-computer-assisted fluoroscopic guidance. The indication was a pelvic ring fracture, C1-1 in the Tile modified AO classification (J Am Acad Orthop Surg. 1996;4:143-151). The mechanism was a ski accident. A percutaneous iliosacral screwing was performed to stabilize the right iliac wing fracture. Twelve days after the initial trauma, a right ureter tear was highlighted, just opposite the fourth lumbar vertebra. Uneventful spontaneous healing of the ureteral injury site occurred following double J-stent catheterization.

Is fixation failure after plate fixation of the symphysis pubis clinically important?

BACKGROUND

Plate fixation is a recognized treatment for pelvic ring injuries involving disruption of the pubic symphysis. Although fixation failure is well known, it is unclear whether early or late fixation failure is clinically important.

QUESTIONS/PURPOSES

We therefore determined (1) the incidence and mode of failure of anterior plate fixation for traumatic pubic symphysis disruption; (2) whether failure of fixation was associated with the types of pelvic ring injury or pelvic fixation used; (3) the complications, including the requirement for reoperation or hardware removal; and (4) whether radiographic followup of greater than 1 year alters subsequent management.

METHODS

We retrospectively reviewed 148 of 178 (83%) patients with traumatic symphysis pubis diastasis treated by plate fixation between 1994 and 2008. Routine radiographic review, pelvic fracture classification, method of fixation, incidence of fixation failure, timing and mode of failure, and the complications were recorded after a minimum followup of 12 months (mean, 45 months; range, 1-14 years).

RESULTS

Hardware breakage occurred in 63 patients (43%), of which 61 were asymptomatic. Breakage was not related to type of plate, fracture classification, or posterior pelvic fixation. Five patients (3%) required revision surgery for failure of fixation or symptomatic instability of the symphysis pubis, and seven patients (5%) had removal of hardware for other reasons, including late deep infection in three (2%). Routine radiographic screening as part of annual followup after 1 year did not alter management.

CONCLUSIONS

Our observations suggest the high rate of late fixation failure after plate fixation of the symphysis pubis is not clinically important.

Symphysis pubis width in the pediatric population: A computerized tomography study

BACKGROUND

Defining pathologic widening of the pubic symphysis in the pediatric population continues to be a clinical challenge. The purpose of this study is to define a normal range of pubic symphyseal widths in various age and gender groups using axial computerized tomography (CT) scans.

METHODS

Axial CT images of 140 patients aged between 2 years and 15 years were obtained from our database of preexisting scans. Using a commercially available software package, the single image with the narrowest pubic symphyseal width was identified and measured. Patients were further stratified based on gender and by age into three groups: group A (age 2-5 years), group B (age 6-11 years), and group C (age 12-15 years).

RESULTS

The mean width ± 95% confidence interval for all cases was 4.59 mm ± 0.18 mm. The mean width for male and female patients was 4.86 mm ± 0.26 mm and 4.33 mm ± 0.24 mm, respectively. Based on the two-way analysis of variance, both age group and gender had a statistically significant effect. Post hoc testing demonstrated a statistically significant difference in mean symphyseal width between groups A and C (p < 0.0001) and groups B and C (p = 0.0025) but not between groups A and B (p = 0.055). When grouped by age, the mean male pubic symphyseal width was found to be 5.10 mm, 4.93 mm, and 4.45 mm, while the mean female width was found to be 4.94 mm, 4.33 mm, and 3.54 mm at 2 to 6 years, 7 to 11 years, and 12 to 15 years of age, respectively.

CONCLUSION

In the pediatric population, males seem to have a wider pubic symphysis than females of the same age group. In both males and females, pubic symphyseal width decreases during the transition from infancy toward skeletal maturity.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Epidemiologic study, level III.

A minimally invasive stabilizing system for dorsal pelvic ring injuries

BACKGROUND

Open reduction and stabilization of dorsal pelvic ring injuries is accompanied by a high rate of soft tissue complications. Minimally invasive techniques have the potential to decrease soft tissue trauma, but the risk of iatrogenic nerve and vessel damage through the reduced surgical exposure should be considered. We treated these injuries using a transiliac internal fixator (TIFI) in a minimally invasive technique characterized by implantation of a pedicle screw and rod system, bridging the sacroiliac joints and the sacral area.

QUESTIONS/PURPOSES

We asked whether (1) we could achieve anatomic restoration with the device, (2) specific complications were associated with this minimally invasive approach (particularly enhanced intraoperative blood loss, soft tissue complications, and iatrogenic neurovascular damage), and (3) function 3 years after trauma was comparable to that of established methods.

METHODS

We retrospectively reviewed 67 patients with dorsal pelvic injuries during a 7-year period. We evaluated the (1) reduction by grading the maximal displacement measured with three radiographic views, (2) the complications during the observation period, and (3) the function with a validated questionnaire (Pelvic Outcome Score) in all but five patients at least 3 years after trauma (mean, 37 months; range, 36-42 months).

RESULTS

At last followup we observed a secondary fracture displacement greater than 5 mm in one patient. The intraoperative blood loss was less than 50 mL in all patients. No neurovascular lesions occurred owing to implantation. Four patients had wound infections, one had loosening of a single pedicle screw, and one had an iatrogenic screw malpositioning. Thirty-five of the 62 patients achieved Pelvic Outcome Scores of either a maximum score or 6 of 7 points.

CONCLUSION

Our observations suggest TIFI is a reasonable alternative to other established fixation devices for injuries of the dorsal pelvic ring with minor risks of major blood loss or iatrogenic neurovascular damage.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Level IV, therapeutic study. See Guidelines for Authors for a complete description of levels of evidence.

OTA highlight paper predicting future displacement of nonoperatively managed lateral compression sacral fractures: can it be done?

PURPOSE

This study was designed to assess the rate of displacement in nondisplaced sacral fractures and to determine if certain fracture patterns are more prone to future displacement.

DESIGN

Retrospective.

SETTING

Two Level I trauma centers.

PATIENTS

Patients consisted of those sustaining a lateral compression pelvic fracture whose age was 17 years or older, had less than 5 mm of initial sacral displacement, were the result of a high-energy mechanism, and had radiographs documenting bony union.

INTERVENTION

By protocol, patients meeting these criteria were mobilized and maintenance of alignment was documented by serial radiographs.

RESULTS

All fractures were classified according to the Orthopaedic Trauma Association classification system, the Young and Burgess mechanistic classification system, and to the location of the sacral fracture as described by Denis. In addition, sacral fractures were classified as complete or incomplete. Additionally, the number and location of rami fractures were recorded. Of the initial 117 fractures, 23 were determined to displace and largely consisted of a single fracture pattern. Fractures consisting of a complete sacral fracture combined with bilateral rami fractures displaced at a rate of 68% (15 of 22). In contrast, incomplete sacral fractures with an ipsilateral rami injury had no displaced unions.

CONCLUSION

Incomplete lateral compression sacral fractures that are associated with ipsilateral rami fractures can be treated nonoperatively and are unlikely to displace. In contrast, those with a complete sacral fracture and bilateral rami fractures displace at a significantly greater rate.

Is a fracture of the transverse process of L5 a predictor of pelvic fracture instability?

In the management of a pelvic fracture prompt recognition of an unstable fracture pattern is important in reducing mortality and morbidity. It is believed that a fracture of the transverse process of L5 is a predictor of pelvic fracture instability. However, there is little evidence in the literature to support this view. The aim of this study was to determine whether a fracture of the transverse process of L5 is a reliable predictor of pelvic fracture instability. We reviewed our hospital trauma database and identified 80 patients who sustained a pelvic fracture between 2006 and 2010. There were 32 women and 48 men with a mean age of 40 years (10 to 96). Most patients were injured in a road traffic accident or as a result of a fall from a height. A total of 41 patients (51%) had associated injuries. The pelvic fractures were categorised according to the Burgess and Young classification. There were 45 stable and 35 unstable fractures. An associated fracture of the transverse process of L5 was present in 17 patients; 14 (40%) of whom had an unstable fracture pattern. The odds ratio for an unstable fracture of the pelvis in the presence of a fracture of the transverse process of L5 was 9.3 and the relative risk was 2.5. A fracture of the transverse process of L5 in the presence of a pelvic fracture is associated with an increased risk of instability of the pelvic fracture. Its presence should alert the attending staff to this possibility.

Massive haemorrhage due to minimally displaced pubic ramus fracture

Fractures of the pubic ramus are commonly seen in the emergency room, but they are thought to be minor injuries. Occasionally, these fractures might be associated with massive haemorrhage. Here we report a case of bilateral obturator artery damage due to minimal displaced pubic ramus fracture.

What constitutes a Young and Burgess lateral compression-I (OTA 61-B2) pelvic ring disruption? A description of computed tomography-based fracture anatomy and associated injuries

OBJECTIVE

The objectives of this study were to provide computed tomography (CT)-based description of the anatomic specifics of lateral compression (LC)-1 pelvic ring disruptions and to describe injury severity to other body systems and their correlation with fracture anatomy.

DESIGN

Retrospective radiographic assessment and review of records

SETTING

A level 1 trauma and tertiary referral center.

PATIENTS/PARTICIPANTS

We identified a consecutive series of 100 patients with Young and Burgess LC-1 pelvic ring disruptions from the trauma registry database at a level 1 trauma center and evaluated their radiographs, CT scans, and injury and admission information.

INTERVENTION

None.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASUREMENTS

Presentation films were used to confirm injury type. The CT scan of the bony pelvis was reviewed for each patient by independent reviewers, with disagreement being resolved by the senior author. Sixteen categories were reviewed for each patient (rami fractures, segmental/comminuted rami fractures, Nakatani classification of rami fractures, anterior and posterior sacral fractures, and Denis classification). Sacral fractures were graded based on severity (0, no fracture; 1, buckle fracture; 2, simple fracture line; 3, comminuted fracture line). The age, Injury Severity Score (ISS), and 6 categories of Abbreviated Injury Scale (AIS) were recorded for each patient. A statistical analysis was performed to test the associations between fracture characteristics and injury severity.

RESULTS

Our group had 54 women and 46 men. The mean age was 37.84 +/- 1.95. All patients but 3 had 1 or more rami fractures, and all but 2 had a sacral fracture. Of the 116 superior rami fractures, Nakatani 3 was the most common type (60/116, 51.7%). Of the 217 rami fractures, 47 (21.7%) were segmental or comminuted. Of the 98 anterior sacral injuries, there were 9 (9.2%) buckle fractures, 39 (39.8%) simple fractures, and 50 (51.0%) comminuted fractures. Of these 98 anterior sacral injuries, 47 (48.0%) were complete, passing through the sacrum and exiting the posterior cortex. Increasing severity of anterior sacrum fracture was associated with the presence of a complete sacral fracture (P < 0.0001). Of the 98 sacral fractures, 50 (50.0%) were Denis type 1, 41 (41.8%) Denis type II, and 7 (7.1%) Denis type III. Higher Denis types had higher likelihood of complete fractures of the sacrum (P < 0.0001). There was a significant association between the presence of a comminuted rami fracture and a complete sacrum injury (P = 0.003) and a trend to higher rates in Nakatani 2 superior rami fractures (P = 0.169). There were 4 deaths due to trauma in this group, and the mean ISS score was 17.16 +/- 1.3. The highest mean system AIS score in these patients was extremity (2.42 +/- 0.06) followed by chest (1.28 +/- 0.17) and abdomen (1.03 +/- 1.30). There was a trend to higher mean ISS scores (P = 0.2287) and significantly higher abdominal AIS scores (P = 0.0014) in those with a complete sacral fracture. Those with comminuted and complete sacral fractures were more likely to be symptomatic and require posterior ring stabilization (P = 0.003 and 0.043, respectively)

CONCLUSIONS

LC-1 fractures of the pelvic ring represent a spectrum of injuries, with a large proportion having complete disruption of the sacrum. This complete injury of the sacrum is predicted by Denis type, severity of anterior ring disruption, abdominal AIS, and potentially location of rami fracture and ISS. CT scanning best defines these injuries.

A treatment protocol for abdomino-pelvic injuries

Background

Abdomino-pelvic injuries often present a challenge for the emergency department. Although literature reports several protocols on the treatment of abdomino-pelvic injuries aiming at defining the most advisable treatment line, optimal treatment is still controversial. This paper describes a protocol that has been used to treat abdomino-pelvic injuries in our hospital since 2002.

Materials and methods

In literature different protocol of abdomino-pelvic injuries are described and comparing them most of the difference are the timing of CT scan, the angiography and the laparotomy when treating a lesion of pelvic ring. If patient is haemodynamically instable and presents a lesion of pelvic ring our protocol suggest the simplest and fastest stabilization (pelvic external fixator) in emergency room and delay exam such as CT scan as second level exam. In the presence of an abdominal injury, with a positive focused assessment with sonography for trauma test, the first step should be a pelvic ring stabilization, as laparotomy decreases the abdominal pressure and reduces the tamponade effect on the retroperitoneum. According to presented protocol the angiography is not be a first choice treatment. This protocol was applied to 58 cases of abdomino-pevic injury with unstable pelvic lesions from October 2002 to December 2005. Mean injury severity score was 27.2 (CI  24.1–30.3).

Results

Five patients (8%) died, three due to haemorrhagic shock and two due to pulmonary embolization. Four patients (6.9%) had a partial or complete cauda equina syndrome, four patients (6.9%) complained of mild incontinence, whilst 1 (1.7%) complained of urinary retention with multiple cystitis. Two patients (3.4%) with retention and multiple cystitis, had a malunion and a painful non-union of the fracture. Seven patients (12.3%) had neurological impairment: 5 (8.6%) sciatic nerve palsy, 1 (1.7%) lumbosacral root lesions in a C2-type fracture and there was one case (1.7%) of inconstant lumbago with sciatic pain. Twelve patients reported different levels of sexual dysfunction (20.7%).

Conclusions

Although validation with a larger cohort is required, our preliminary clinical data are similar to, or better than, those reported in the most recent publications on this question, suggesting that this protocol could well reduce both the mortality rate and the long term complications of abdominopelvic injuries.

The trochanteric C-clamp for provisional pelvic stability

The application of a pelvic clamp for provisional stability of unstable pelvic fractures has been advocated in the orthopaedic literature. Although the technique has gained some supporters, problems with placement and associated complications have prevented widespread acceptance. We have modified the pelvic clamp (ACE Pelvic Stabilizer) technique by applying the clamp to the trochanteric region of the femur and applying a reduction force similar to a pelvic binder or external fixator.

Skin breakdown following circumferential pelvic antishock sheeting: a case report

Hemodynamic instability in the setting of high-energy blunt trauma is a challenging clinical scenario. Rapid provisional stabilization of the unstable pelvis is advisable because it reduces ongoing blood loss and pain by imparting bone and soft tissue stability as well as reducing pelvic volume. The use of a standard bed sheet has become a popular choice for achieving temporary stability of the pelvis through a technique that has been called circumferential pelvic antishock sheeting. Although we have found circumferential pelvic antishock sheeting to be a valuable tool in our institution, we describe a case of skin compromise that precluded complete internal fixation of a complex pelvic ring/acetabular fracture.