[Pelvic injuries caused by bucking horses]

Area of Science:

• Orthopedic Surgery
• Trauma Surgery
• Sports Medicine

Background:

• Pelvic ring fractures are uncommon, typically resulting from high-energy trauma.
• Straddle injuries, a type of pelvic fracture, can occur from direct impact or crushing forces.

Observation:

• Three male patients (ages 47-57) sustained unstable straddle injuries from low-energy pelvic trauma while horseback riding.
• All patients were hemodynamically stable with pubic symphysis diastasis evident on radiography.
• One patient developed sacroiliac joint widening, necessitating initial fixation and subsequent arthrodesis due to non-union.

Findings:

• Low-energy pelvic trauma, such as from horseback riding, can cause unstable straddle injuries.
• Pubic symphysis diastasis is a common radiographic finding in these injuries.
• Sacroiliac joint involvement may occur and can lead to complications like non-union.

Implications:

• Highlights the potential for pelvic ring injuries in seemingly low-energy activities like horseback riding.
• Emphasizes the need for thorough evaluation of pelvic trauma, even in hemodynamically stable patients.
• Suggests that complex pelvic injuries may require staged surgical management and long-term follow-up.