A pelvic fracture is defined as one or more breaks (fractures) of the bones comprising the pelvis. This is a serious condition that requires immediate care from your doctor.
A risk factor is something that increases your chance of getting a disease or condition. The following factors increase your chance of developing pelvic fractures:
Symptoms of a pelvic fracture include:
You may have other injuries such as other broken bones or damage to your liver, kidneys, or other internal organs—especially if your fracture is caused by a motor vehicle accident. These other injuries can increase your risk of death. They may cause blood loss inside your abdomen (internal bleeding) that may leave too little blood available for pumping to the heart, brain, and other important parts of the body (a condition called “shock”). The pelvic fracture itself causes significant blood loss.
Your doctor will ask about your symptoms and medical history, and perform a physical examination. He or she will likely refer you to a doctor who specializes in multiple injuries (a trauma specialist) and/or bone injuries (an orthopedic surgeon). ). If you are in a car accident, you will probably be taken to a hospital emergency room which is prepared for such situations. Tests may include the following:
You and/or your family should talk with your doctor about the best treatment plan for you. A pelvic fracture is a serious injury that may be complicated by injuries to other parts of your body. Treatment first focuses on stopping any internal or external bleeding caused by your accident, then on the diagnosis and treatment of both the pelvic fracture and any associated injuries.
Many people need surgery to repair their pelvic fractures or other injuries. Blood transfusions and antibiotics may be part of the early care. Early fracture stabilization, bedrest, and appropriate physical therapy and other rehabilitation care are very important to making a good recovery, which will usually take months.
If you are diagnosed with a pelvic fracture, follow your doctor's instructions.
To help reduce your chance of getting pelvic fractures, take the following steps:
RESOURCES:
American Academy of Orthopedic Surgeons, Patient Education Library
http://orthoinfo.aaos.org
The American Pediatric Surgical Association, Resources for Parents
http://www.eapsa.org/parents/resources.htm
CANADIAN RESOURCES:
Canadian Orthopaedic Association
http://www.coa-aco.org
Women's Health Matters
http://www.womenshealthmatters.ca
References:
Collinge C, Tornetta P III. Soft tissue injuries associated with pelvic fractures. Orthop Clin North Am . 2004;35(4):451-456.
Frakes MA, Evans T. Major pelvic fractures. Crit Care Nurse . 2004 Apr;24(2):18-30.
Grotz MR, Allami MK, Harwood P, et al. Open pelvic fractures: epidemiology, current concepts of management and outcome. Injury . 2005;36(1):1-13.
Mohanty K, Musso D, Powell JN, Kortbeek JB, Kirkpatrick AW. Emergent management of pelvic ring injuries: an update. Can J Surg . 2005;48(1):49-56.
Quick TJ, Eastwood DM. Pediatric fractures and dislocations of the hip and pelvis. Clin Orthop Relat Res . 2005;(432):87-96.
Tornetta P III, Templeman DC. Expected outcomes after pelvic ring injury. Instr Course Lect . 2005;54:401-407.
Last reviewed November 2008 by John C. Keel, MD
Please be aware that this information is provided to supplement the care provided by your physician. It is neither intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. CALL YOUR HEALTHCARE PROVIDER IMMEDIATELY IF YOU THINK YOU MAY HAVE A MEDICAL EMERGENCY. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider prior to starting any new treatment or with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.
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