[Traumatic hemipelvectomy]

With an incidence of only 0.6% of all pelvic injuries, traumatic hemipelvectomy is a rare event. It is defined as open or closed avulsion of one hemipelvis with occlusion or disruption of the main vessels and lengthening or disruption of the nerves, often complicated by urogenital or anorectal injuries. The mechanism of injury in this case is a typical one with extreme abduction and external rotation of the leg, causing sacroiliac joint disruption and symphysis separation. Two other mechanisms described are avulsion when the leg becomes entangled in a piece of machinery or a massive crushing at the groin. After a fast treatment in the field, the patient described was treated with immediate open revision, tamponade and stabilization of the pelvis. Upper leg preservation by reconstruction of the femoral vessels with vascular prostheses was attempted. Because of a broad necrosis of soft tissues, early completion of the hemipelvectomy was performed. The patient recovered well. Miction and bowel evacuation as well as sexual function could be preserved. The resulting quality of life is high and the patient is socially reintegrated without problems.