Pelvis Trauma

Question 1

What is the cause of pelvic trauma most likely to be in…

• younger patients
• older patients

Answer 1

Younger - high energy trauma

Older - lower energy injuries and a history of osteoporosis

Question 2

What bones make up the pelvic ring?

Answer 2

Sacrum

Ilium

Ischium

Pubic bones

Question 3

If a fracture of the pelvis occurred, which blood vessels are at risk of injury?

Answer 3

Internal iliac arterial system

Pre-sacral venous plexus

Question 4

What are the three main patterns of pelvic fracture?

Answer 4

1. Lateral compression fractures - caused by side pressure, causing the pelvis to displace medially
2. Vertical shear fractures - axial force on one hemipelvis where one side is displaced superiorly
3. Anterolateral compression fractures - results in a wide disruption of the pubic symphysis and the pelvis “opening like a book”

Question 5

What examination is mandatory in a pelvic fracture?

Why?

Answer 5

PR exam is mandatory

Need to assess sacral nerve root function and look for the presence of blood that may indicate rectal tear