Initial experience with the T-Clamp for temporary fixation of mechanically and hemodynamically unstable pelvic ring injuries

Abstract

In polytrauma patients with unstable pelvic ring injuries, pelvic binders interfere with femoral arterial access and are frequently removed for emergent endovascular and abdominal procedures. The 'trochanteric C-clamp' (T-clamp) is a novel technique described for rapid stabilization of the pelvis without fluoroscopic imaging, while ensuring adequate access to the groin. This case series reports the feasibility and safety following T-clamp application for unstable pelvic ring injuries in patients requiring simultaneous endovascular intervention. Between May 2018 - May 2019, seventeen patients with unstable pelvic ring injuries were treated with a T-clamp in conjunction with other emergent endovascular or intra-abdominal procedures. Nine presented with unstable APC injuries, seven with unstable LC injuries and one with a vertical shear pattern. Complications related to the T-clamp were prospectively collected. Following T-clamp application, there were two cases of intraoperative over-reduction, one of which required exchange for an anterior external fixator. This was the result of a concomitant acetabulum fracture leading to iatrogenic acetabular protrusion secondary to the T-clamp. Twelve cases maintained the T-clamp fixation postoperatively ranging from 1-3 days. One postoperative loss of reduction was noted and required exchange for anterior external fixator. In hemodynamically unstable patients who require emergent endovascular procedures, such as pelvic angiography and REBOA, T-clamp application offers a reasonably safe and effective method for expeditious stabilization of the pelvis while allowing unimpeded access to the abdomen, groin and pelvis. Caution should also be applied in patients with concomitant acetabulum fracture for risk of malreduction. Additionally, its prolonged postoperative use should be limited to patients who are not immediately suitable for fixation of the pelvis.

Keywords: Hemodynamically unstable; Polytrauma; Temporary pelvic fixation; Unstable pelvic ring injuries.