Abstract
Background This study describes a modified classification and management protocol for perineal
soft tissue injuries associated with pelvic fractures.
Methods A total of 11 patients with perineal soft tissue injuries associated with open pelvic
fractures were studied retrospectively. The patients were classified into three types
based on the area of defect: type A (urogenital zone), type B (anal zone), and type
C (both urogenital and anal zones). Each type included the following subclasses: A1
(without urethra injuries), A2 (with urethra injuries), B1 (without anorectal injuries),
B2 (with anorectal injuries), C1 (with types A1 and B1), C2 (with types A2 and B1),
C3 (with types A1 and B2), and C4 (with types A2 and B2). The management protocol
was planned according to the individual classifications. Protocol A1 (for type A1)
involved skin graft or myocutaneous flap transplantation. Protocol A2 (for type A2)
involved the same protocol combined with urine diversion. Protocol B1 (for type B1)
involved skin graft or myocutaneous flap transplantation. Protocol B2 (for type B2)
involved the same management combined with fecal diversion. Protocol C involved the
correspondent protocol used for each subtype of type C.
Results Out of the 11 patients, there were 5, 3, and 3 cases of types A, B, and C, respectively.
One patient died due to sepsis, and the wounds of the remaining patients healed well.
No anal incontinence had occurred.
Conclusions Perineal soft tissue injuries associated with pelvic fractures can be classified
into three types, and the management protocol can be planned according to the classification.
Keywords
open pelvic fractures - soft tissue injuries - classification