Haemorrhage in fragility fractures of the pelvis

Fragility fractures of the pelvis (FFP) are one of the most visible and debilitating consequences of osteoporosis. In contrast to pelvic ring fractures of the young, fragility fractures are caused by falls from a standing height or even by repetitive physiological loads. Even though haemorrhage is rarely found in fragility fractures of the pelvis, one must be aware of the potential risk.

In a computer literature search, we identified eight papers about patients with haemorrhage and/or haemodynamic instability as a complication of a low-velocity pelvic ring fracture, all of which were case reports.

In our review, an overview of the case reports is provided, risk factors identified and a recommendation for the treatment and clinical observation given.