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Pelvis fractures occur when there are one or more fractures present on the bones that make up the pelvis. The pelvis is located below the abdominal regions and between the hip bones and consists of rings present at the base of the spine. Pelvic fractures range from mild to severe complexities, and treatments vary based on how intense the fracture is.
Medical professionals at the Department of Orthopaedics possess exceptional proficiency and acumen in addressing different types of fractures, especially among young adults resulting from accidents or falls from elevated positions. Treatment decisions vary based on the severity of the fracture, and at Manipal Hospitals, medical experts and our skilled team of medical professionals employ sophisticated care and techniques for patient treatment and management, ensuring better outcomes.
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The signs and symptoms that indicate pelvic fracture are based on the severity of an individual's fracture, which include:
Extreme pain in the lower back region, including the regions of the hip and groyne
Intense pain when walking
Numbness or sensation of tingling around the groyne region or legs
Experiencing abdominal pain
Difficulty in urinating (urinary hesitancy)
Your specialist may suggest you undergo imaging tests to diagnose pelvic fractures, such as:
X-rays: X-ray scans help specialists evaluate the degree of pelvic fracture you have, enabling them to give you a suitable treatment.
Computed tomography (CT scan): CT scans give more detailed visualisation than X-rays in assessing the level of seriousness of a fracture and also rule out any additional injuries that may occur within the pelvic ring, such as to the kidneys, intestines, bladder, or genitals.
Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI): Your specialist may recommend an MRI scan if the results of your CT scan and X-rays are inconclusive or inconsistent.
Treatment options for a fractured pelvis are based on parameters such as the depth and severity of your fracture, the pattern, type, and extent of the bone displaced, your general health, and the presence of other injuries. Treatment options include:
Rest: Your specialist may suggest you not involve yourself in any heavy or strenuous activities for a few weeks.
Walking Aids: Based on the degree of the fracture, your specialist may suggest you use walking aids like crutches, a walker, or a wheelchair to prevent putting weight on your leg(s). You may need to assist yourself in using walking aids for at least 3 months or until your pelvis is completely healed.
Medicines: Your specialist may prescribe you certain medications, such as blood thinners, to minimise blood clots that may occur in the veins of your legs and pelvis.
Surgery: Surgery is recommended when you have multiple bone fractures in your pelvis or if existing medications or treatments do not work.
Your recovery period varies based on the severity of the pelvic fracture. Mild fractures usually go away on their own and usually take around 8 to 12 weeks to recover fully. Severe forms of pelvic fracture take a longer time to recover, especially if you have other serious comorbidities or injuries that arose after your pelvic fracture.
For severe or unstable pelvic fractures, surgeries are recommended. Your medical health provider will assess your fracture and decide which type of surgery is appropriate to address it. Types of surgeries include:
External Fixation Surgery: The procedure involves the insertion of metal pieces such as pins or screws through small incisions on both sides of your pelvis, and bars will be attached externally to your body. The surgery aids in stabilising the area of the pelvis after a pelvic fracture.
Skeletal Traction: The procedure helps in the realignment of fractured bones by inserting pins into the thigh bone or shinbone. The attached pins that extend outside the body are attached to weights, gently pulling on the leg. The purpose is to correct the position of the broken pelvic bones.
Open Reduction and Internal Fixation: Displaced pelvic bone fragments are realigned to their normal positions, and fragments are subsequently secured with screws or metal plates that are attached to the outer surface of the bone.
Severe and unstable pelvic fractures could lead to serious complications and risks compared to mild fractures. Possible complications typically arise from nerve or organ damage due to a pelvic fracture. Risks may include:
Chronic pain
Weak mobility
Sexual dysfunction
Deep vein thrombosis (DVT)
You can manage or prevent any symptoms related to a pelvic fracture during your recovery period through the following steps:
Use walking aids like crutches or canes to prevent you from falling.
Practice safe driving and be aware of road signs while driving. Accidents due to high-impact vehicles are common causes of pelvic fractures.
Allowing yourself proper rest and using proper lifting techniques.
If you are using a ladder, make sure you use it safely and properly.
Proper exercise, stretching, and conditioning help minimise the risk and recurrence of pelvic fractures. However, it is important not to overstretch or exert yourself beyond your limits, as it could hinder your recovery process.
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