Pelvic ring fractures in the elderly

Short-term mobility in low-energy pelvic ring fractures after conservative treatment

BACKGROUND

The growing population of elderly people is leading to a rising number of pelvic ring fractures. These often involve combinations of pubic branch and sacrum fractures, as seen in lateral compression type 1 (LC1) and 2 (LC2) fractures or more precisely classified as fragility fractures of the pelvis (FFP). The combined impact on the anterior and posterior ring brings the risk of prolonged pain, resulting in decreased mobility and increased complications. Given the higher multimorbidity of this population, surgical treatment poses a greater risk of intra- and post-operative complications. Hence, the management and treatment of this particular type of fracture remain challenging.

METHODS

A retrospective data analysis of 41 patients (F/M; 27/14) treated conservatively for low-energy LC1 or LC2 fractures was performed between 2017 and 2020. The fractures were classified using Rommens' FFP classification. The primary outcome was mobility at 2 and 6 weeks, assessed through chart analysis and phone interviews. To determine factors influencing patient outcomes fracture consolidation was assessed via X-ray analysis. As a secondary outcome logistic regression and decision tree analyzes were conducted.

RESULTS

The mean age at the time of fracture was 79.8 ± 12.5 (SD) years. Thirty-two patients regained mobility (F/M; 25/7) after 2 weeks. Another 7 patients were mobile after 6 weeks (F/M; 2/5). Two male patients did not regain mobility. Male sex emerged as the sole independent predictor of non-mobility at 2 weeks (p = 0.0037). Age, BMI, pubic branch fracture dislocation >5 mm, analgesic use of opiates, corticosteroid therapy, alcohol and smoking showed no association with mobility recovery. Fracture consolidation was observed in 73.2 % of patients (F/M; 21/9), while one female had no consolidation. Ten patients (F/M; 5/5) were lost to follow-up.

CONCLUSIONS

Our study shows that LC1 (FFP IIb, IIc) and LC2 (FFP IIIc, IVb) fractures can be effectively treated conservatively, with successful remobilization within 6 weeks. The only independent negative predictor of early mobilization was male sex. Pubic branch displacement >5 mm did not affect the outcome. Therefore, conservative management proves to be a viable option for low-energy LC1 or LC2 fractures.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

IV (retrospective study).

Pelvic ring fracture in the older adults after minor pelvic trauma - is it an innocent injury?

OBJECTIVE

This study aimed to evaluate the prevalence of severe hemorrhage as a potentially life-threatening complication in elderly patients with isolated, low-energy pelvic ring fractures, which may be more common than previously described.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

A retrospective cohort study was conducted at an academic level 1 trauma center, including 579 patients aged over 65 who suffered from isolated low-energy pelvic fractures between 2006 and 2020. Pelvic computer tomography (CT) scans, with or without contrast, were performed and reviewed for patients with suspected posterior ring injury or bleeding. Patients without CT scans were excluded from the study.

RESULTS

Among the 123 patients with isolated pubic rami fractures, 30 (24.4 %) had bleeding with a significant hemoglobin drop (>2 g%). 21(70 %) patients of these had posterior pelvic ring involvement as compared to 45 who did not bleed (51 %, p = 0.07). There was a significantly larger proportion of patient who received anticoagulant therapy (ACT) with posterior ring injury among the bleeding group (20 % vs 3.2 % p < 0.01). Treatment included blood transfusion (19/123, 15.5 %), and arterial angiographic embolization (5/123, 4 %). No complications related to angio-embolization were observed, and all patients survived the initial 90-day period. No other source of bleeding was identified in any of these patients.

CONCLUSION

Severe pelvic hemorrhage in the older adults due to a minor pelvic injury after a low-energy trauma is not an uncommon complication, especially with combination of ACT and posterior pelvic ring fracture. This indicates that these injuries more challenging than previously believed. Geriatric pelvic ring injuries should be monitored carefully with serial blood counts, and low threshold for imaging including contrast enhanced CT scans and angiography.

Feasibility and Safety of 3D-Navigated Trans-Sacral Bar Osteosynthesis for Fragility Fractures of the Sacrum: FIRST Clinical Experiences

Background: There has been an increasing number of fragility fractures of the sacrum in the recent decade. With rates of up to 28%, the complication rates after surgical treatment are still at an unacceptably high level, and new treatment strategies are urgently needed. Therefore, the purpose of this study was to evaluate the potential of 3D-navigated trans-sacral bar osteosynthesis in the surgical treatment of fragility fractures of the sacrum. Methods: Retrospectively, from 2017 to 2023, all cases with confirmed fragility fractures of the sacrum in patients > 65 years of age that were surgically treated with navigated 3D-navigated trans-sacral bar osteosynthesis were included, and epidemiological data and the course of treatment analyzed in comparison to a matched control group. Results: Finally, 21 patients (18 women and 3 men) were included in this study. The average age of the patients was 82.6 (SD 6.3) in the intervention group and 79.4 (SD 6.7) in the control group. There were postoperatively detected complications in two cases (18%) in the intervention group and in four cases (40%, p = 0.362) in the control group. The postoperative in-hospital stay was 10 days (SD 3.8) vs. 11.4 days (SD 3.8) in the control. None of the patients in the intervention group and two in the control group needed revision surgery. Conclusions: Overall, 3D-navigated trans-sacral bar osteosynthesis seems to be a promising technique, enabling an accurate implant positioning while offering a low complication rate with an excellent short-term outcome in elderly patients with fragility fractures of the sacrum.

Treatment Trends and Epidemiologic Changes in Acetabular Fracture Management over the Course of 10 Years: An Analysis Based on 2853 Patients as Treated by the German Pelvic Multicenter Study Group

Background/Objectives: Acetabular fractures, traditionally linked to high-impact trauma in younger adults, are increasingly observed in the elderly due to falls and poor bone quality. This demographic shift necessitates updated treatment approaches. This study analyzes demographic trends and treatment evolution over a decade using the German pelvic fracture registry. Methods: Data on acetabular fractures were analyzed from the German pelvic fracture registry of the German Trauma Society. Parameters included classification, demographics, treatment methods, and surgical details. Trends were assessed by grouping patients based on treatment intervals and age, comparing treatment methods, surgical approaches, and reduction quality across these groups, considering fracture types and treatment volume. Results: The study included 2853 unilateral acetabular fractures with a mean patient age of 61.5 years, showing an increasing age trend. A shift from simple to complex fractures involving the anterior acetabular column was observed. Operative treatment was performed in 62.5% of cases, more common in non-geriatric patients and those with posterior column involvement. The use of anterior intrapelvic approaches increased over time, replacing the Ilioinguinal extrapelvic approach. Anatomical reduction was achieved in 47.4% of cases, with 31.7% having imperfect reductions and 20.9% poor reductions. High-volume centers had significantly better reduction outcomes, particularly for simple fractures. Geriatric patients exhibited worse reduction quality compared to younger patients. In-hospital mortality was stable at 3.3%. Conclusions: The study highlights a demographic shift towards an older patient population, leading to more complex fracture patterns. Despite advancements in surgical techniques and new implant technologies, these demographic changes have resulted in lower reduction quality for complex fractures. Emphasis is placed on careful patient selection for reconstructive surgery or endoprosthetic replacement to ensure high-quality outcomes.

Clinical Associated Factors of Tile B/C Type of Pelvic Ring Fractures; a Retrospective Cross-sectional study

Introduction

Pelvic ring fractures categorized under Tile Categories B and C denote partially and fully unstable fractures, respectively. This study aimed to identify the clinically associated factors of Tile B/C pelvic ring fractures.

Methods

This retrospective cross-sectional study reviewed medical records from the Emergency Medicine department at Ramathibodi Hospital in Bangkok, Thailand. The study included individuals aged ≥ 15 who experienced accidents from 2012 to 2021. To investigate the associations between the clinical variables and three critical outcomes, including Tile B/C pelvic ring fractures, major vascular injuries, and the necessity for surgical or radiological interventions, multivariable logistic regression analysis was employed.

Results

A total of 198 patients were included in the study, among whom 34.8% were diagnosed with Tile B/C pelvic ring fractures. The analysis revealed several significant predictors of Tile B/C fractures, including the presence of pelvic tenderness (adjusted odds ratio [aOR] = 15.25, 95% confidence interval [CI] = 5.86-39.66, p < 0.001), and a shock index (SI) ≥1 (aOR = 4.2, 95% CI = 1.24-14.22, p = 0.021). Moreover, Tile B/C pelvic ring fractures were associated with an increased incidence of major vascular events and the imperative requirement for surgical or radiological interventions.

Conclusion

Clinical findings of pelvic tenderness and an SI ≥1 are strong predictive clinical factors associated with Tile B/C pelvic fractures. Early diagnosis, application of an pelvic binder, provision of initial resuscitation, and prompt transportation to a definitive care facility are crucial components of management.

Operative versus conservative treatment in pelvic ring fractures with sacral involvement

BACKGROUND

To evaluate the performance in activities of daily living (ADL), level of pain, mortality and rate of complications in patients with a pelvic ring fracture with sacral involvement who were treated conservatively compared to a surgically treated patient collective using percutaneous iliosacral screw fixation.

HYPOTHESIS

Conservative treatment does not result in inferior clinical outcome compared to operative treatment.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

A retrospective study of 112 conservatively (n=46) or operatively (n=66) treated patients with an isolated posterior or a combined posterior and anterior pelvic ring fracture was performed. The analysis included: age, sex, mechanism of injury, fracture type according to AO/OTA classification, energy of trauma sustained (no-, low-, high-energy trauma), type of treatment (operative or conservative), complications as well as duration of in-hospital stay. To assess clinical and activity outcome, the visual analog scale for pain (VAS), Barthel Scale, American Society of Anaesthesiologists (ASA) scores as well as mortality were assessed. The mean follow-up was 29.3±14.6 months. Furthermore, a geriatric subgroup (n=68, age≥60, low-energy trauma only) was analyzed.

RESULTS

The majority of the patients were female (79%) and suffered from low-energy trauma (n=64, 58%). There were no significant differences in the operative and the conservative groups and subgroups concerning VAS, Barthel scores and ASA scores. The survival analyses showed a significantly lower survival rate in the conservative group (41.8±3.6 months) compared to the operative group (55.9±2 months, p=0.002). Similar findings were encountered in the geriatric subgroup analysis.

CONCLUSION

This study demonstrates equivalent clinical outcome in conservatively and surgically treated patients using a percutaneous iliosacral screw fixation at a mid-term follow-up. However, operatively treated patients showed decreased mortality. This needs to be carefully considered in clinical decision-making but must be further explored using a prospective randomized study approach.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

III.

Traumatic injuries of the immature hip and pelvis

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

The pelvis and hip account for 0.3--4% of fractures of the immature skeleton, and generally result from high energy trauma. These fractures range in severity from apophyseal avulsions to complete disruptions of the pelvic ring. The purpose of this article is to review the presentation, diagnosis, treatment and complications of these injuries in order to inform clinicians involved in their management. There is a lack of evidence-based management protocols for fractures of the immature pelvis largely due to their rarity and lack of robust scientific literature on the topic.

RECENT FINDINGS

Computed tomography/MRI is essential as up to 30% of pelvis and 70% of acetabular fractures are not identified on initial radiographs. A sub-optimal outcome is common in unstable fractures treated conservatively and adequate reduction and surgical stabilization is often required to avoid long-term morbidity.

SUMMARY

A coordinated approach involves resuscitation and temporary stabilization with planned definitive fixation. It is generally accepted that these injures should be managed in paediatric trauma centres. Whilst injuries vary in pattern and severity, we present an overview that considers the evaluation and treatment of the paediatric patient with pelvic and hip fractures to ensure that these injuries are identified promptly and treated by surgeons familiar with contemporary management algorithms.

Weight-bearing Guidelines for Common Geriatric Upper and Lower Extremity Fractures

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

The purpose of this review paper is to summarize current weight-bearing guidelines for common geriatric fractures, around weight-bearing joints, of the upper and lower extremities.

RECENT FINDINGS

There is an increasing amount of literature investigating the safety and efficacy of early weight-bearing in geriatric fractures, particularly of the lower extremity. Many recent studies, although limited, suggest that early weight-bearing may be safe for geriatric distal femur and ankle fractures. Given the limited data pertaining to early weight-bearing in geriatric fractures, it is difficult to establish concrete weight-bearing guidelines in this population. However, in the literature available, early weight-bearing appears to be safe and effective across most injuries. The degree and time to weight-bearing vary significantly based on fracture type and treatment method. Future studies investigating postoperative weight-bearing protocols should focus on the growing geriatric population and identify methods to address specific barriers to early weight-bearing in these patients such as cognitive impairment, dependence on caregivers, and variations in post-acute disposition.

Adverse outcomes following pelvic fracture: the critical role of frailty

PURPOSE

Pelvic fractures among older adults are associated with an increased risk of adverse outcomes, with frailty likely being a contributing factor. The current study endeavors to describe the association between frailty, measured using the Orthopedic Frailty Score (OFS), and adverse outcomes in geriatric pelvic fracture patients.

METHODS

All geriatric (65 years or older) patients registered in the 2013-2019 Trauma Quality Improvement Program database with an isolated pelvic fracture following blunt trauma were considered for inclusion. An isolated pelvic fracture was defined as any fracture in the pelvis with a lower extremity AIS ≥ 2, any abdomen AIS, and an AIS ≤ 1 in all other regions. Poisson regression models were employed to determine the association between the OFS and adverse outcomes.

RESULTS

A total of 66,404 patients were included for further analysis. 52% (N = 34,292) were classified as non-frail (OFS 0), 32% (N = 21,467) were pre-frail (OFS 1), and 16% (N = 10,645) were classified as frail (OFS ≥ 2). Compared to non-frail patients, frail patients exhibited a 88% increased risk of in-hospital mortality [adjusted IRR (95% CI): 1.88 (1.54-2.30), p < 0.001], a 25% increased risk of complications [adjusted IRR (95% CI): 1.25 (1.10-1.42), p < 0.001], a 56% increased risk of failure-to-rescue [adjusted IRR (95% CI): 1.56 (1.14-2.14), p = 0.006], and a 10% increased risk of ICU admission [adjusted IRR (95% CI): 1.10 (1.02-1.18), p = 0.014].

CONCLUSION

Frail pelvic fracture patients suffer from a disproportionately increased risk of mortality, complications, failure-to-rescue, and ICU admission. Additional measures are required to mitigate adverse events in this vulnerable patient population.

Pelvic Ring Fractures in Older Adult Patients-Assessing Physician Practice Variation among (Orthopedic) Trauma Surgeons

PURPOSE

Pelvic fractures in older adults are a major public health problem and socioeconomic burden. The standard of care has changed over the past years, and there is limited consensus on which patients benefit from surgical fixation. There is currently no nationwide treatment protocol to guide the decision-making process. Therefore, the aim of this survey was to provide more insight into if, when, and why patients with a fragility fracture of the pelvis (FFPs) would be considered for additional imaging and surgical fixation by treating physicians.

METHODS

An online clinical vignette-based survey of hypothetical scenarios was sent out to all orthopedic and trauma surgeons in the Netherlands. The questionnaire comprised multiple-choice questions and radiographic images. Differences between subgroups were calculated using the X2 test or the Fisher exact test.

RESULTS

169 surgeons responded to the survey, with varying levels of experience and working in different types of hospitals. In a patient with a simple pubic ramus fracture and ASA 2 or ASA 4, 32% and 18% of the respondents would always advise a CT scan for further analysis. In the same patients, 11% and 31% of the respondents would not advise a CT scan, respectively. When presented with three cases of increasing severity of co-morbidity (ASA) and/or increasing age and/or different clinical presentation of an FFP type 3c on a CT scan, an increasing number of respondents would not consider surgical fixation. There was significant variation in practice patterns between the respondents who do not work in a hospital performing pelvic and acetabular (P&A) fracture surgery and those who do work in a P&A referral hospital. Most respondents (77%) refer patients 1-5 times a year to an expert center for surgical fixation.

CONCLUSION

There is currently a wide variety of clinical practices regarding the imaging and management of FFPs, which seems to be influenced by the type of hospital the patients are presented to. A regional or national evidence-based treatment protocol should be implemented to ensure a more uniform approach.

FFP: Indication for minimally invasive navigation technique

An 85-year-old female patient was transferred to our clinic for surgical treatment of a complex FFP IIc. She had suffered a ground level fall 10 days ago and was still living independently. The patient was initially treated conservatively with pain medication and immobilization in an outward hospital. Due to the clinical symptoms and complex fracture pattern a physiotherapeutic assisted mobilization was not possible. The clinical examination revealed severe bilateral pain at the anterior and posterior pelvic ring. We performed a minimally invasive and an image-guided surgical stabilization. After surgical treatment the patient was mobilized with crutches for short distances. On the third day after surgical intervention the patient was discharged from our hospital into rehabilitation. This case shows the successful use of minimally invasive and modern navigation technique for treatment of a complex FFP.

Clinical implications of additional posterior fractures in combined anterior-posterior pelvic ring fractures in elderly patients

OBJECTIVES

Historically, pelvic ring fractures (PRF) are considered to occur predominantly in the anterior ring and therfore to be mechanically stable. Combined anterior and posterior (A + P) PRF are expected to be less mechanically stable and therefore to be associated with higher levels of pain and reduced mobility compared to isolated anterior fractures. The current study investigates the clinical relevance of combined A + P PRF in elderly patients.

METHODS

A prospective multicentre cohort study was conducted in patients >70 years of age with anterior PRF after low-energy trauma diagnosed on conventional radiographs. All patients underwent an additional CT-scan. Patients were divided into two groups; isolated anterior or combined A + P fractures. Patients were treated conservatively with adequate analgesia for at least one week. If patients could not be mobilised after conservative treatment, surgical fixation was performed. Numerical Rating Scale (NRS) pain scores, dependence on walking aids and Activities of Daily Living scores (ADL) were measured at 2-4 weeks, and 3, 6 and 12 months after fracture.

RESULTS

102 patients (age 81.1 ± 7.6 years) were included. Isolated anterior fractures were diagnosed in 25 (24.5%) and A + P fractures in 77 (75.5%) patients. Baseline characteristics did not differ between the two groups. Most patients were successfully treated conservatively and 5 (4.9%) underwent percutaneous trans-iliac, trans-sacral screw fixation after failure of conservative treatment. At 2-4 weeks post trauma, patients with A + P fractures had similar median pain scores (3 (range 0-8) vs. 5 (0-10), p = 0.19) and ADL scores (85 (25-100) vs. 78.6 (5-100), p = 0.67), but were more dependent on walking aids (92.8% vs. 72.2%; p = 0.02) compared to patients with isolated anterior fractures. There were no significant differences at 3 months. At one year follow-up the median NRS pain and ADL scores for both fracture groups were 0 and 100, respectively. Mortality was 10.8%, and additional loss to follow-up was 17.6%.

CONCLUSIONS

The vast majority of elderly patients with PRF have combined A + P fractures. The clinical implications of additional posterior pelvic ring fractures in elderly patients appears to be limited.

The efficacy of "TiRobot"orthopaedic robot-assisted VS conventional fluoroscopic percutaneous screw fixation of the sacroiliac joint

PURPOSE

This study is to compare the precision and safety of the orthopaedic robot with conventional fluoroscopy for assisted percutaneous sacroiliac joint screw implantation.

METHODS

Retrospective analysis was performed on the clinical data of 57 patients with unstable posterior pelvic ring injuries who were admitted and met the criteria between January 2017 and January 2022. All of these patients underwent percutaneous sacroiliac joint screw implantation, and their clinical data were split into two groups based on the surgical technique: a RA group (robot-assisted implantation, 30 patients, 54 screws) and a CF group (conventional fluoroscopic freehand implantation, 27 patients, 42 screws). There were 96 screws placed in total. The durations of the two groups' operations, fluoroscopy examinations, fluoroscopy doses, total number of fluoroscopies, and intra-operative guide pin applications were noted and compared. On post-operative CT scans, the placement of each screw was assessed using the Gertzbein-Robbins classification. Finally, imaging Matta criteria were used to assess the sacroiliac joint fracture reduction. The Majeed functional score was used to assess clinical function.

RESULTS

Both groups successfully completed 57 procedures in total. In both groups, there were no consequences from vascular injury, wound infection, or urinary tract infection. Additionally, there were no complications from robotic-induced nerve injury, operating time, fluoroscopic dose, and the frequency of fluoroscopic; the number of percutaneous punctures in the RA group was lower than that of the CF group.There were statistically significant differences between the aforementioned data (P < 0.05). The modified Matta evaluated the effectiveness of fracture reduction. In the RA group, there was no statistically significant difference between the CF group (P > 0.05). According to the modified Gertzbein-Robbins classification criteria, the 54 screws implanted in the RA group were classified as follows: class A (45), class B (5), class C (4), and class D (0); the accuracy rate of the implants was 92.59%. Forty-two screws implanted in the CF group, 30 screws were defined class A, class B (3), class C (7), and class D (2). The accuracy rate of the implants was 78.57%(χ2 = 3.967, P < 0.05). There was a statistically significant difference between the two groups. The Majeed score 30 patients in RA group, one month post-operation, 16 considered exceptional, eight decent, six moderate, and zero bad. Post-operation more than six months,25 recorded exceptional, five decent. By the time,27 patients in CF group,12 exceptional grade, eight decent, six moderate, and one bad,one month post-operation. Post-operation more than six months,22 recorded exceptional, five decent.Both group (P > 0.05).

CONCLUSION

"TiRobot" robot-assisted screw implant treatment for unstable posterior pelvic ring injury has a greater success rate than traditional surgery as compared to conventional percutaneous screw implant. It is a precise, secure, and minimally invasive surgical technique that can also be applied to severe pelvic injuries even congenital sacral deformities.

Navigation Template Design and the Anatomic Measurement for Anterograde Transpubic Screws

OBJECTIVE

For pelvic ring fractures, screw fixation became a popular technique for its good biomechanical performance. The safe insertion of anterograde the transpubic screw is important for patients with anterior pelvic ring fractures. This paper is to research the anatomical parameters of the anterograde transpubic screw corridor and evaluate the safety of anterograde transpubic screw placement assisted by the assembled navigation template.

METHODS

Fifty subjects with normal pelvic, 25 men and 25 women, age from 20 to 60 were enrolled, and their ilium were 3D reconstructed. The ilium was divided into zone I, zone II and zone III. Zone I and zone III was defined as medial and lateral to the obturator foramen, respectively. Zone II is located between zones I and III. The corridor A is formed by zone I and zone II and corridor B is formed by zone I, zone II and zone III. The diameter and length of the inner circle, the distance from the center of the inner circle to the posterior superior and to the inferior iliac spine of corridor A and corridor B were measured, respectively. Nine patients with pelvic fractures underwent anterograde transpubic screw and transverse sacroiliac screw placement assisted by the assembled navigation template and were retrospectively analyzed. Operation time, blood loss, incision length and fluoroscopy times were recorded. Grading score and Matta score were evaluated after surgery.

RESULTS

In the 50 subjects, the diameter of corridor A was 11.16 ± 2.13 mm, and that of corridor B was 8.54 ± 1.52 mm. The length of corridor A was 86.39 ± 9.35 mm, and that of corridor B was 117.05 ± 5.91 mm. The surface distance from the screw entry point to the posterior superior iliac spine in corridor A was 109.31 ± 11.06 mm, and that in corridor B was 127.86 ± 8.23 mm. The surface distance from the screw entry point to the posterior inferior iliac spine in corridor A was 91.16 ± 10.34 mm, and that in corridor B was 106.92 ± 7.91 mm. A total of 18 sacroiliac transverse screws and 11 anterograde transpubic screws were inserted assisted by assembled navigation templates for nine patients. The average operation time was 108.75 ± 25.71 min, the blood loss was 141.11 ± 50.21 ml, the incision length was 14 ± 4.62 cm, and the intraoperative fluoroscopy was 17.89 ± 4.01 times.

CONCLUSION

Transpubic screw corridor can be obtained by 3D reconstruction. For the majority of patients, the anterograde pubic ramus corridor accommodated a 6.5 mm diameter screw. It is safe to use anterograde transpubic screw placement assisted by an assembled navigation template.

FRAGILITY FRACTURES OF THE SACRUM: A SILENT EPIDEMIC

Fragility fractures of the sacrum (FFS) are caused by low-energy trauma in the elderly population. Due to the nuanced symptomatology, many FFS remains unrecognized and the prevalence is underestimated. The clinical presentation varies, typically presenting with weightbearing low back pain without even remembering of a previous trauma. Radiographs are usually insufficient for the diagnosis and second level imaging modalities are required. In particular, magnetic resonance demonstrated the highest diagnostic accuracy. Treatment should aim to guarantee early mobilization and weightbearing, efficient pain relief and early discharge from the hospital to a proper facility for rehabilitation. Conservative treatment is reserved to non-displaced fractures with an adequate pain relief within one week allowing early mobilization. Otherwise, surgical treatment must be preferred. Nowadays, minimally invasive techniques, such as ileo-sacral screws or trans-sacral bar osteosynthesis, are safe and effective procedures and have overcome open procedures. In more complex patterns, with complete dissociation between the pelvic ring and the ilio-lumbar spine, spino-pelvic fixation is the procedure of choice.

Trends in osteoporotic fracture and related in-hospital complications during the COVID-19 pandemic in Alberta, Canada

Fragility fractures (i.e., low-energy fractures) account for most fractures among older Canadians and are associated with significant increases in morbidity and mortality. Study results suggest that low-energy fracture rates (associated with surgical intervention and outcomes) declined slightly, but largely remained stable in the first few months of the COVID-19 pandemic.

PURPOSE/INTRODUCTION

This study describes rates of low-energy fractures, time-to-surgery, complications, and deaths post-surgery in patients with fractures during the coronavirus disease (COVID-19) pandemic in Alberta, Canada, compared to the three years prior.

METHODS

A repeated cross-sectional study was conducted using provincial-level administrative health data. Outcomes were assessed in 3-month periods in the 3 years preceding the COVID-19 pandemic and in the first two 3-month periods after restrictions were implemented. Patterns of fracture- and hospital-related outcomes over the control years (2017-2019) and COVID-19 restrictions periods (2020) were calculated.

RESULTS

Relative to the average from the control periods, there was a slight decrease in the absolute number of low-energy fractures (n = 4733 versus n = 4308) during the first COVID-19 period, followed by a slight rise in the second COVID-19 period (n = 4520 versus n = 4831). While the absolute number of patients with low-energy fractures receiving surgery within the same episode of care decreased slightly during the COVID-19 periods, the proportion receiving surgery and the proportion receiving surgery within 24 h of admission remained stable. Across all periods, hip fractures accounted for the majority of patients with low-energy fractures receiving surgery (range: 58.9-64.2%). Patients with complications following surgery and in-hospital deaths following fracture repair decreased slightly during the COVID-19 periods.

CONCLUSIONS

These results suggest that low-energy fracture rates, associated surgeries, and surgical outcomes declined slightly, but largely remained stable in the first few months of the pandemic. Further investigation is warranted to explore patterns during subsequent COVID-19 waves when the healthcare system experienced severe strain.

Focusing on individual morphological fracture characteristics of pelvic ring fractures in elderly patients can support clinical decision making

Introduction

Pelvic ring fractures in the elderly are often caused by minor trauma. Treatment of these patients is currently based on fracture classification, clinical course, and ability to mobilize. Our aim was to identify morphological fracture characteristics with potential prognostic relevance and evaluate their association with clinical decision making and outcome, as well as their interobserver reliability.

Methods

Five fracture characteristics were investigated as potential variables: 1. Extent of the dorsal pelvic ring fracture (absent, unilateral, bilateral); 2. Extent of the ventral pelvic ring fracture (absent, unilateral, bilateral); 3. Presence of a horizontal sacral fracture; 4. Ventral dislocation; 5. Ventral comminution.

These characteristics were assessed retrospectively in a series of 548 patients. The association of their presence with the decision to perform surgery, failure of conservative treatment and the length of hospital stay (LOS) was determined. Further, the inter-observer reliability for the specific characteristics was calculated and the relation with survival assessed.

Results

Four of the five evaluated characteristics showed an association with clinical decision making and patient management. In particular the extent of the dorsal fractures (absent vs. unilateral vs. bilateral) (OR = 7.0; p < 00.1) and the presence of ventral comminution/dislocation (OR = 2.4; p = 0.004) were independent factors for the decision to perform surgery. Both the extent of the dorsal fracture (OR = 1.8; p < 0.001) and the presence of ventral dislocation (OR = 1.7; p = 0.003) were independently associated with a prolonged overall LOS.

The inter-observer agreement for the fracture characteristics ranged from moderate to substantial.

A relevant association with increased mortality was shown for horizontal sacral and comminuted ventral fractures with hazard ratios (HR) of 1.7 (95% CI: 1.1, 2.5; p = 0.008) and HR = 1.5 (95% CI: 1.0, 2.2; p = 0.048).

Conclusion

In the elderly, the extent of the dorsal fractures and the presence of ventral comminution/dislocation were associated to the decision to undergo surgery, failure of conservative treatment and length of stay. Survival was related to horizontal sacral fractures and ventrally comminuted fractures. These characteristics thus represent a simplified but highly informative approach for the evaluation of pelvic ring fractures in the elderly. This approach can support clinical decision making, promote patient-centred treatment algorithms and thus improve the outcome of individualized care.

Supplementary Information

The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s12877-022-03222-0.

[Cement augmentation in pelvic ring fractures]

Cement augmentation of sacroiliac (SI) screws in the posterior pelvic ring has been shown to provide greater biomechanical stability in cadaveric studies. Pelvic ring fractures are relatively rare compared to the total number of fractures. Nevertheless, the 1‑year mortality rate of up to 27% is very high, especially for geriatric pelvic ring fractures and is also largely associated with reduced mobility due to the fracture. The primary goal of treatment is therefore the restoration of patient mobility. This requires the achievement of sufficient stability of the pelvic ring. As osteoporosis is often a causative factor for the pelvic ring fracture, a more stable anchoring of the implants in the osteoporotic bone can be achieved by cement augmentation. This article presents the possibilities of cement augmentation of the pelvic ring and describes the technique of cement-augmented SI screws.

Additional clinical value of routine CT imaging in fragility fractures of the pelvis: a prospective cohort study (ARTIFACT)

PURPOSE

Additional CT imaging for fragility fractures of the pelvis (FFP) has a high detection rate for concomitant posterior ring fractures (cPRFs). However, the clinical value of routine additional CT imaging is unknown. This study aimed to determine the additional clinical value of routine CT imaging by changes in treatment policy and to establish the predictive value of pain localized around the sacroiliac joint (SIJ) for cPRFs.

METHODS

A prospective cohort study was conducted in a single teaching hospital in the Netherlands between November 2019 and November 2020. Patients were included if they were ≥ 65 years and had a (suspected) FFP on the pelvic radiograph. All patients underwent additional CT imaging. Changes in treatment policies ((possible) surgery, restrictive weight-bearing, hospital admission and outpatient follow-up) after CT imaging were registered.

RESULTS

Fifty-one patients (44 female) were included with a mean age of 80.6 years. Routine CT imaging revealed an additional cPRF in 27 patients (53%). A change in treatment occurred in 29 patients (57%), of which 7 (12%) were managed either surgical or with restrictive weight-bearing. The presence of pain around the SIJ had a sensitivity of 89% and specificity of 61% for detecting a cPRF.

CONCLUSION

Routine additional CT imaging has few direct therapeutic consequences with regards to surgical management or restrictive weight-bearing. These findings may be altered when considering a lower threshold for surgical intervention. The presence of pain around the SIJ was highly predictive for a clinically relevant cPRF.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

NL8011 on 02-09-2019.

Early weight bearing in acetabular and pelvic fractures

Background and aim of the work:

The incidence of pelvic and acetabular fractures is increasing during the years, counting 37 pelvic fractures per 100000 people annually. No weight bearing or toe touch weight bearing are usually chosen in the initial management to allow fracture and ligamentous healing and avoid fracture displacement and fixation failure. On the other hand, early weight bearing may stimulate fracture healing and allow prompt functional recovery, faster return to work and recreational activities and reduce complications linked to late rehabilitation. Aim of the study is to review the literature about weight bearing indications for pelvic and acetabular fractures to highlight clinical and biomechanical evidence supporting early weight bearing.

Methods:

Two independent reviewers independently extracted studies on early weight bearing of pelvic and acetabular fractures. All selected studies were screened independently based on title and abstract. Then the full text of any article that either judged potentially eligible was acquired and reviewed again. Any disagreement was resolved by discussing the full text manuscripts.

Results:

44 studies including reviews, meta-analysis, clinical and biomechanical studies were selected.

Conclusions:

Despite biomechanical data, few clinical evidences can be found to support early weight bearing in pelvic and especially acetabular fractures treatment. The promising results of some clinical experiences, however, should direct further studies to clearly define the indications and limits of early weight bearing in these injuries. Recognizing intrinsic lesion stability and bone and fixation technique quality, together with patient age and compliance, should be the mainstay for post-operative management choice. (www.actabiomedica.it)

Epidemiology and aetiology of male and female sexual dysfunctions related to pelvic ring injuries: a systematic review

Introduction

Pelvic ring injuries, frequently caused by high energy trauma, are associated with high rates of morbidity and mortality (5–33%), often due to significant blood loss and disruption of the lumbosacral plexus, genitourinary system, and gastrointestinal system. The aim of the present study is to perform a systematic literature review on male and female sexual dysfunctions related to traumatic lesions of the pelvic ring.

Methods

Scopus, Cochrane Library MEDLINE via PubMed, and Embase were searched using the keywords: “Pelvic fracture,” “Pelvic Ring Fracture,” “Pelvic Ring Trauma,” “Pelvic Ring injury,” “Sexual dysfunction,” “Erectile dysfunction,” “dyspareunia,” and their MeSH terms in any possible combination. The following questions were formulated according to the PICO (population (P), intervention (I), comparison (C), and outcome (O)) scheme: Do patients suffering from pelvic fracture (P) report worse clinical outcomes (C), in terms of sexual function (O), when urological injury occurs (I)? Is the sexual function (O) influenced by the type of fracture (I)?

Results

After screening 268 articles by title and abstract, 77 were considered eligible for the full-text analysis. Finally 17 studies that met inclusion criteria were included in the review. Overall, 1364 patients (902 males and 462 females, M/F ratio: 1.9) suffering from pelvic fractures were collected.

Discussion

Pelvic fractures represent challenging entities, often concomitant with systemic injuries and subsequent morbidity. Anatomical consideration, etiology, correlation between sexual dysfunction and genitourinary lesions, or pelvic fracture type were investigated.

Conclusion

There are evidences in the literature that the gravity and frequency of SD are related with the pelvic ring fracture type. In fact, patients with APC, VS (according Young-Burgess), or C (according Tile) fracture pattern reported higher incidence and gravity of SD. Only a week association could be found between GUI and incidence and gravity of SD, and relationship between surgical treatment and SD. Electrophysiological tests should be routinely used in patient suffering from SD after pelvic ring injuries.

Erectile dysfunction and penile rehabilitation after pelvic fracture: a systematic review and meta-analysis

OBJECTIVE

To investigate the rate of erectile dysfunction (ED) after pelvic ring fracture (PRF).

DESIGN

Systematic review and meta-analysis.

METHODS

A systematic literature search of the Cochrane, EMBASE, MEDLINE, Scopus and Web of Science Library databases was conducted in January 2020. Included were original studies performed on humans assessing ED after PRF according to the 5-item International Index of Erectile Function (IIEF-5) questionnaire and fracture classification following Young and Burgess, Tile or Arbeitsgemeinschaft für Osteosynthesefragen/Orthopedic Trauma Association. Furthermore, interventional cohort studies assessing the effect of penile rehabilitation therapy with phosphodiesterase-5-inhibitors (PDE-5-I) on IIEF-5 scores compared before and after treatment were included. Results were presented as forest plots of proportions of patients with ED after PRF or mean changes on IIEF-5 questionnaires before and after penile rehabilitation. Studies not included in the quantitative analysis were narratively summarised. Risk of bias assessment was conducted using the revised tool for the Quality Assessment on Diagnostic Accuracy Studies.

RESULTS

The systematic literature search retrieved 617 articles. Seven articles were included in the qualitative analysis and the meta-analysis. Pooled proportions revealed 37% of patients with ED after suffering any form of PRF (result on probability scale pr=0.37, 95% CI: 0.26 to 0.50). Patients after 3 months of penile rehabilitation therapy reported a higher IIEF-5 score than before (change score=6.5 points, 95% CI: 2.54 to 10.46, p value=0.0013).

CONCLUSION

Despite some heterogeneity and limited high-quality research, this study concludes that patients suffering from any type of PRF have an increased risk of developing ED. Oral intake of PDE-5-I for the purpose of penile rehabilitation therapy increases IIEF-5 scores and may relevantly influence quality-of-life in these patients.

PROSPERO REGISTRATION NUMBER

CRD42020169699.

Biomechanical Comparison of Five Fixation Techniques for Unstable Fragility Fractures of the Pelvic Ring

Background: Incidence of pelvic ring fractures has increased over the past four decades, especially after low-impact trauma—classified as fragility fractures of the pelvis (FFP). To date, there is a lack of biomechanical evidence for the superiority of one existing fixation technique over another. An FFP type IIc was simulated in 50 artificial pelvises, assigned to 5 study groups: Sacroiliac (SI) screw, SI screw plus supra-acetabular external fixator, SI screw plus plate, SI screw plus retrograde transpubic screw, or S1/S2 ala–ilium screws. The specimens were tested under progressively increasing cyclic loading. Axial stiffness and cycles to failure were analysed. Displacement at the fracture sites was evaluated, having been continuously captured via motion tracking. Results: Fixation with SI screw plus plate and SI screw plus retrograde transpubic screw led to higher stability than the other tested techniques. The S1/S2 ala–ilium screws were more stable than the SI screw or the SI screw plus external fixator. Conclusions: In cases with displaced fractures, open reduction and plate fixation provides the highest stability, whereas in cases where minimally invasive techniques are applicable, a retrograde transpubic screw or S1/S2 ala–ilium screws can be considered as successful alternative treatment options.

The comparison of age- and sex-specific alteration in pubic bone microstructure: A cross-sectional cadaveric study

BACKGROUND

The burden of age-associated fragility fracture of the pelvis has gradually amplified over the years. Commonly used clinical tools cannot fully explain age-associated fracture risk increase, and microstructural analysis could be required to elucidate pubic bone strength decline in elderly.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

The study sample encompassed 46 pubic bones obtained from cadaveric donors divided into a young women (<45 years, n = 11), aged women (>60 years, n = 11), young men (<45 years, n = 12) and aged men group (>60 years, n = 12). Micro-computed tomography was used to evaluate the cortical and trabecular microstructure of pubic bone samples.

RESULTS

Apart from age-associated loss in quantitative trabecular parameters, significant alteration of micro-CT parameters that more closely reflect internal trabecular microarchitectural complexity may contribute to pubic bone strength decline in men and women of advanced age (p < 0.05). Additionally, decreased cortical thickness and increased Ct.Po, Po.Dm and Po.N were found in the anterior and posterior cortical surface of pubic bone samples from the aged individuals (p < 0.05). The more pronounced alteration was noted in aged female donors, illustrated in a significant deterioration trend of the Tb.N, Tb.Sp, and thinner posterior cortical surface with decreased pore spacing (p < 0.05).

CONCLUSION

Our data suggest that age-associated deterioration in trabecular and cortical pubic bone micro-architecture could unravel a morphological basis for decreased pubic bone strength and increased pubic bone fragility, which leads to fracture predilection in the elderly women. Thus, the individual fracture risk assessment should be advised in the elderly, with a particular accent on aged women.

Management of pelvic injuries in hemodynamically unstable polytrauma patients - Challenges and current updates

Pelvic injuries are notorious for causing rapid exsanguination, and also due to concomitant injuries and complications, they have a relatively higher mortality rate. Management of pelvic fractures in hemodynamically unstable patients is a challenging task and has been variably approached. Over the years, various concepts have evolved, and different guidelines and protocols were established in regional trauma care centers based mainly on their previous experience, outcomes, and availability of resources. More recently, damage control resuscitation, pelvic angioembolization, and acute definitive internal fixation are being employed in the management of these unstable injuries, without clear consensus or guidelines. In this background, we have performed a computerized search using the Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews, Scopus, Embase, Web of Science, and PubMed databases on studies published over the past 30 years. This comprehensive review aims to consolidate available literature on the current epidemiology, diagnostics, resuscitation, and management options of pelvic fractures in polytraumatized patients with hemodynamic instability with particular focus on damage control resuscitation, pelvic angioembolization, and acute definitive internal fixation.