Injuries of the Pelvic Ring

Injuries to the pelvic ring are divided into stable, partially unstable (characterized by ver­tical instability) and completely unstable injuries (characterized by vertical and horizontal insta­bility). A great majority of stable injuries are produced by low-energy trauma, and are most­ly treated conservatively. Unstable injuries of the pelvic ring result from high-energy trauma and are associated with shock and concomitant injuries to other organs. Aggressive shock treatment and stepwise diagnosis are essential in these patients. Prompt stabilization of the pelvic ring is by the use of the external fixator or pelvic clamp. Definitive management of the injury is undertaken once the patient’s condition has stabilized and all diagno­stic procedures have been completed.