[External fixators in treatment of severe fractures of the pelvis]

The use of external fixation for pelvic injuries is mainly determined by the type of pelvic girdle fracture and by the severity of the general injury. Exact diagnosis of the extent of injuries can be made with a pelvic X-ray a.p. Pennal's technique and CT imaging. The iliosacral joint can be repositioned by transduced compression via Schanzscrews inserted above the acetabulmum and directed toward the iliosacral joints. Triangular compression frame construction is applied along the plane of the pelvic inlet. The advantages include easier intensive care, early functional mobilization, minimised trauma and decreased blood loss. Disadvantages are the risk of pin tract infection and patient discomfort. Of 92 patients treated thus, these were 11 cases of ankylosis of the iliosacral joint, two malunions and two persistent instabilities of the pelvic girdle.