Damage control orthopaedics in unstable pelvic ring injuries

Abstract

Pelvic ring injuries are often associated with other system injuries and require a multidisciplinary approach for their treatment. Early mortality is usually secondary to uncontrolled haemorrhage whereas late mortality is due to associated injuries and sepsis-induced multiple organ failure. The management of the pelvic fracture should be conceived as part of the resuscitative effort as errors in early management may lead to significant increases in mortality. In severely multiple injured patients who are in an 'unstable' or 'in extremis' clinical condition damage control orthopedics is the current treatment of choice. By performing limited surgical interventions the subsequent reduction in blood loss and transfusion requirements can only be beneficial in these critically ill patients, reducing the risk of developing systemic complications and early mortality.