Pelvic Fracture

Definition

A pelvic fracture is defined as one or more breaks, also known as fractures, of the bones that make up the pelvis. Several organs, blood vessels, and nerves are located in this area. Because of this, a pelvic fracture is a serious injury that needs immediate care to prevent current and future complications.

Pelvic Trauma

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Causes

Pelvic fractures are caused by:

• Car, motorcycle, or pedestrian collisions
• Falls
• High-impact sports injuries

Risk Factors

Factors that may increase your chance of a pelvic fracture include:

• History of falls
• Decreased bone mass— osteoporosis
• Decreased muscle strength
• History of trauma in young children and adolescents, especially during sports

Symptoms

A pelvic fracture may cause:

• Pelvic pain
• Pain upon walking, or inability to walk
• Swelling and bruising
• Feeling of a pulled muscle, especially in adolescents that participate in sports

Diagnosis

Your doctor will ask about your symptoms and medical history. A physical exam will be done to assess the extent of your injury. You may be referred to a doctor who is a trauma specialist and/or a doctor who is a bone specialist.

Tests may include:

• Blood tests
• Urine tests

Imaging tests can evaluate the pelvic region and surrounding structures. These may include:

• X-rays
• CT scan
• MRI scan
• Abdominal ultrasound
• Urethrography
• Angiography

Treatment

A pelvic fracture is a serious injury that may be complicated by injuries to other parts of the body. Proper treatment can prevent long-term complications. Treatment will depend on how serious the fracture is, but may include:

Initial Care

Initial treatment focuses on managing life-threatening problems, such as bleeding or shock. The fracture may be held in place with a sheet wrap or an external fixation device. With an external fixation device, screws are inserted through the bones and connected to a frame on the outside of the body.

Traction may be used realign and stabilize the fracture if surgery can't be done right away.

Stable fractures will heal without surgery. Unstable fractures are treated with surgery. Some fractures can be set with an external fixation device. Others may require repair with internal pins, screws, or plates.

Extra support may be needed to protect, support, and keep the pelvic bone in line while it heals. A walker or crutches may be needed to keep weight off the pelvis.

Medication

Prescription or over-the-counter medications may be given to help reduce inflammation and pain. Blood thinners reduce the risk of blood clots.

Rest and Recovery

Healing time varies by age and overall health. Young people and those in better overall health heal faster. It may take several months for an unstable fracture to heal.

Complications of a pelvic fracture can be temporary or permanent. These include:

• Pain
• Nerve damage, which can affect
  • Mobility
  • Bladder function
  • Sexual function

Activities will need to be adjusted while your pelvic bone heals, but complete rest is rarely required.

Physical therapy or rehabilitation will be used to improve range of motion.

Prevention

To help reduce your chance of a pelvic fracture:

• Prevent falls by using a stool or stepladder to reach high places. Add handrails along stairways and place nonslip mats in your bathroom, shower, and under carpets.
• Wear a seatbelt in any vehicle your drive or ride in.
• Never drive if you have been drinking, or ride with anyone who has.
• Use proper safety gear for any high-risk sports you participate in.
• Maintain your muscle strength with regular exercise.