Occurrence and overview of appendicular fractures associated with high-energy unstable pelvic ring injuries: experience from a level 1 trauma center.

PURPOSE: To determine the occurrence and the main associated fractures involving the appendicular skeleton in a group of patients with mechanically unstable pelvic ring injuries (PRI's).

METHODS

Patients with high-energy unstable PRI's who underwent surgical treatment at a level 1 trauma center between May 1, 2019, and March 31, 2024, were retrospectively evaluated. Sex, age, and the Young-Burgess classification were assessed, as well the occurrence and type of associated fracture(s) involving upper and lower limbs.

RESULTS

The sample consisted of 143 individuals, predominantly young male with pelvic ring injuries caused by an anteroposterior compression mechanism. Of these, 74 (51.7%) individuals presented associated fracture(s) involving the appendicular skeleton. Frequency and distribution of associated fractures by anatomical location were determined, with a notable incidence of fractures involving forearm distal segment and femoral diaphyseal segment, each affecting 16 individuals (11.2%)

CONCLUSION

A high occurrence of fractures involving upper and lower limbs in patients with high-energy unstable PRI's was identified. The detailed presentation of distribution allowed recognition of the main fractures involving extremities in the analyzed sample.