The Pelvis Flashcards
What are stable fractures of the pelvis
those that do not enter the ring or which break it in one place
e.g. iliac wing or pubic bones
What are unstable fractures of the pelvic ring
Those in which the pelvic ring is disrupted in two or more places
e.g. through the waist of the ilium, the sacroiliac joint or sacrum
How are unstable fractures of the pelvis produced
by compression forces - crushed by machinery or run over by a vehicle
What is the treatment for a unstable pelvic fracture
external frame with bone screws introduced at various points around the iliac crest
How long does it take before stability is achieved in an unstable fracture
12 weeks of fixation
What is a major complication of a pelvic fracture
Haemorrhage - from the large plexus of vessels which line the inside of the pelvis
What is the treatment for a haemorrhage in a pelvic fracture
Blood transfusion
Why might a patient not be able to pass urine
fear shock pain damage to the bladder damage to the urethra
What might be helpful in making a diagnosis of a damaged urethra
Urethroscopy
