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Lateral compression pelvic injury

Case contributed by Jeremy Jones
Diagnosis almost certain

Presentation

Compression injury to lower abdomen and pelvis by tractor.

Patient Data

Age: 14 years
Gender: Male

Normal chest radiograph.  Extensive bony injury to the pelvis with pubic rami fractures and possible left sacral injury.

There is an extensive pelvic injury with multiple fractures involving the right sacrum, left ileum and pubic rami.  The ssacroiliac joints are involved.  The acetabula appear spared.  Features here are of a lateral compression type injury.  In addition, there is extensive retroperitoneal haematoma causing partial compression of the ureters and prominent collecting systems.  No solid organ injury is demonstrated.

Follow up CT

ct

Extensive pelvic fractures involving the SI joints is again seen.

External fixator tracts are demonstrated.  Callus is forming around the ramal fractures.

Case Discussion

This young boy has experienced a horrible pelvic trauma with extensive pelvic fractures and associated soft tissue injuries and retroperitoneal haematoma, but no active extravasation.

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