A prospective study of functional outcome of pelvic fractures treated with external fixator

Author(s): S Deviprasad, Sriram Thanigai T, R Rajkumar

Abstract: Universally, high- energy trauma is the major cause of mortality and morbidity in the younger age group. Usually pelvic fractures are caused by high energy trauma. Hence it affects not only the musculoskeletal system, but also the soft tissues and viscera contained in the pelvis leading to increased mortality and morbidity. Management of such patients remains a challenge to the trauma surgeon, even in the most sophisticated trauma centers. The aim of our study is to evaluate the role of external fixation in the management of pelvic fractures, both as a resuscitative measure and definitive treatment of unstable pelvic fractures (Type B & Type C). In our study, all patients underwent stabilization with external fixator and the mortality rate was zero with additional internal fixation with reconstruction plating being done in three patients. The primary advantage of external fixation in pelvic injury is to maintain the reduction by which it produces a tamponade effect and results in reduction in haemorrhage, and helps transportation of the patient. External stabilization for unstable pelvic fractures with external fixator is an established treatment procedure and we in our study confirm the usefulness of the procedure in an emergency situation and can be continued effectively as a definitive management for type B & C Pelvic injuries.