Classification, staging, urgency and indications in pelvic injuries

Abstract

For primary evaluation, classification and indication of pelvic ring injuries the exact knowledge of the injury mechanism and the clinical and radiological signs is mandatory. Clear injury definitions are proved for prognostical reasons and for the timing of the specific treatment. The simple classification of stable A-type injuries, rotational B-type injuries and translationally stable C-type injuries is the basis for further treatment. Whereas A-type fractures normally need no surgical stabilization, except in severely displaced fractures or possible organ injuries due to fracture fragments, in B-type injuries solely stabilization of the anterior pelvic ring provides sufficient stability for early ambulation with partial weight bearing. In C-type injuries a combined posterior and anterior stabilization is required for anatomical reduction and early ambulation. With this concept the pelvic girdle can be reconstructed anatomically in the majority of cases.