Table-skeletal fixation as an adjunct to pelvic ring reduction

Abstract

The reduction of displaced pelvic ring injuries remains a technical challenge, especially when treatment is delayed. A pelvic frame (Orthopaedic Systems Inc, Union City, California) provides a means of external skeletal fixation, rigidly stabilizing the intact hemipelvis to the operating room table. The fractured and displaced fragments can then be manipulated around the securely fixed uninjured hemipelvis, allowing the application of more directions and magnitudes of force for reduction maneuvers than allowed by the traditional means of pelvic reduction. The surgical technique and 1 case each of an acute fracture and pelvic nonunion/malunion are presented.