Pelvic Fragment External Fixator - Type C

Pelvic Fragment External Fixator: A Comprehensive Guide

The pelvic region is a complex structure that provides support for the upper body and protects the reproductive and digestive organs. Pelvic fractures can be severe and result in significant morbidity and mortality. Pelvic external fixators are one of the many treatment options for pelvic fractures. In this article, we will discuss the pelvic fragment external fixator, its indications, contraindications, techniques, complications, and outcomes.

Introduction

Pelvic fractures are a significant cause of morbidity and mortality in trauma patients. They can occur due to high-velocity accidents, falls from a height, or low-velocity trauma. The pelvic region has a complex anatomy with multiple bony structures, and fractures can result in significant displacement, instability, and hemorrhage. Pelvic external fixators are one of the many treatment options for pelvic fractures. They provide stability, support, and alignment of the pelvic bones while allowing early mobilization.

Indications

Pelvic external fixators are indicated in the following situations:

• Pelvic ring disruption with displacement or instability

• Open pelvic fractures

• Acetabular fractures with displacement or comminution

• Complex fractures involving the sacroiliac joint

• Concomitant injuries that preclude surgery

Contraindications

Pelvic external fixators are contraindicated in the following situations:

• Severe soft tissue injury or infection

• Pelvic instability that cannot be adequately reduced

• Vascular injury that cannot be controlled

• Concomitant injuries that preclude external fixation

Technique

The pelvic external fixator consists of two main components: the pins and the connecting rods. The pins are inserted into the iliac crest and the supra-acetabular region of the pelvis under fluoroscopic guidance. The pins should be placed perpendicular to the bone surface and at least 2 cm away from the neurovascular structures. The connecting rods are then attached to the pins and adjusted to achieve the desired reduction and alignment. The reduction should be assessed intraoperatively using fluoroscopy and adjusted as needed.

Complications

Pelvic external fixators are associated with several complications, including:

• Pin tract infection

• Pin loosening or breakage

• Rod migration or displacement

• Neurovascular injury

• Pressure sores

• Loss of reduction or alignment

• Sexual dysfunction

Outcomes

Pelvic external fixators have been shown to be effective in stabilizing pelvic fractures and improving patient outcomes. Early mobilization and weight-bearing can be achieved, resulting in reduced hospital stay, improved pain control, and decreased morbidity. However, the complication rate is high, and careful patient selection, proper pin placement, and close monitoring are essential to achieve optimal outcomes.

Conclusion

Pelvic external fixators are a valuable tool in the management of pelvic fractures. They provide stability, support, and alignment while allowing early mobilization. Proper patient selection, careful pin placement, and close monitoring are essential to achieve optimal outcomes.

FAQs

1. What is a pelvic external fixator? A pelvic external fixator is a device used to stabilize and align the bones of the pelvis in patients with pelvic fractures.

2. How is a pelvic external fixator inserted? The pins are inserted into the iliac crest and the supra-acetabular region of the pelvis under fluoroscopic guidance.

3. What are the indications for a pelvic external fixator? Pelvic external fixators are indicated in pelvic ring disruption with displacement or instability, open pelvic fractures, acetabular fractures with displacement or comminution, complex fractures involving the sacroiliac joint, and concomitant injuries that preclude surgery.