[Hemipelvectomy due to blast injuries: possibilities of occupational rehabilitation].

A case of traumatic hemipelvectomy due to explosion of an antitank shell in a 21-year-old Croatian Army soldier is described. Explosion was due to inadvertent handling of the shell in the army barracks. Literature data on persons who survived traumatic hemipelvectomy are extremely scarce; the injury is characterized by a very high death rate (60-100%). After prompt surgical treatment the patient developed a postoperative anaerobic clostridial infection. Owing to intensive clinical and physical therapy the patient was enabled for moving around in a special wheel-chair and walking with the help of crutches and a prosthesis. He was also enrolled in a training course in computer use. Continual physical therapy and psychotherapy were essential because of a high degree of disablement. Making the patient self-sufficient, fit for work and finding him an appropriate job is considered to be the responsibility not only of the professional medical team but also of joint efforts on the part of competent state ministries, Ministry of Defence, Ministry of Labour and Social Welfare, State Pension and Insurance Fund and Ministry of Education, Culture and Sports.