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HomeSummaryReview of the conditionCharacteristics of pelvic fracture Types Similar conditions Incidence and risk factors Diagnosis Medications Possible benefits of pelvic fracture surgery Considering surgeryPreparing for surgeryAbout the procedureRecovering from surgeryRehabilitationConclusion

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Home « Clinical Services « Trauma

Pelvic Fracture Surgery.

Edited By: M.L. Chip Routt, Jr., M.D.
Last updated Wednesday, January 12, 2005

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Figure 1 - The pelvis

Review of the condition

Characteristics of pelvic fracture

The pelvis consists of three major bones joined together in a ringed shape and held by strong ligaments (see figure 1). General characteristics of pelvic fracture include severe pain, pelvic bone instability, and associated internal bleeding. Pelvic fractures occur due to traumatic events such as falls or automobile or motorcycle accidents.

Types

A variety of pelvic fracture injuries may occur. Zones of typical injury include:

symphysis pubis dislocation
pubic ramus fracture
iliac fracture
sacroiliac joint dislocation
sacral fracture

Open wounds, such as rectal tears, may be in contact with and contaminate these injuries.

Similar conditions

No other condition is confused with pelvic fracture.

Incidence and risk factors

Pelvic fractures occur rarely. They are commonly associated with high-energy traumatic events. Young males are often at risk, due to their high velocity lifestyles.

Diagnosis

Alert and awake patients with pelvic fracture complain of pain. Clinical examination of the unstable pelvis reveals bone instability and associated tenderness. Bone instability, or bony mobility, occurs after fracture when muscle spasms or other deforming forces are applied to the fracture fragments. X-rays show the disruptions (fractures and/or dislocations) and their displacement (misalignment) patterns. Open associated wounds should be obvious to the doctor.

Medications

Analgesics (narcotics, etc.) temporarily and incompletely diminish pain due to pelvic fractures.

Possible benefits of pelvic fracture surgery

Surgery stabilizes the injured pelvic ring, restores normal anatomy, provides patient comfort, and allows rehabilitation.

Surgery for pelvic fracture at the University of Washington

If you are interested in making an appointment to discuss this procedure, you can request an appointment using our online referrals website. To request a referral online, please click here. You can also call 206-598-4288 (outside the Seattle area: 800-440-3280) to make an appointment.

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