Pelvic disruption: assessment and classification

Author summary

The authors describe use of specific x-ray views to include anteroposterior, inlet, and outlet views, as well as tomograms for evaluation of pelvic disruption. Classification based on the three major forces (anteroposterior compression, lateral compression and vertical shear) producing pelvic disruption is proposed. The assessment, in addition to a thorough history and physical, can help identify the precise fracture pattern and mechanism of injury, and thus guide the proper management of pelvic disruption. The degree of instability associated with a given fracture pattern is an extremely important prognostic factor for the survival and overall recovery of the patient.