Pelvic Ring Injuries: Stable or Not?

J Am Acad Orthop Surg. 2024 Feb 1;32(3):99-107. doi: 10.5435/JAAOS-D-23-00470. Epub 2023 Oct 10.

Abstract

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.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Anesthesia*
  • Fractures, Bone* / diagnostic imaging
  • Fractures, Bone* / surgery
  • Humans
  • Pelvic Bones* / injuries
  • Spinal Fractures*