Paediatric pelvic fractures: A review of 2 cohorts over 22 years

Area of Science:

• Pediatric Orthopedics
• Trauma Surgery
• Radiology

Background:

• Pelvic and acetabular fractures in children are rare but can result in significant morbidity.
• Previous studies have characterized pediatric pelvic fractures, but trends over time require ongoing investigation.

Purpose of the Study:

• To identify and characterize pediatric pelvic and acetabular fractures over a ten-year period.
• To compare the current cohort with a previously reported cohort of pediatric pelvic fractures.

Main Methods:

• Retrospective review of trauma database, hospital records, and radiological imaging for 53 children under 16.
• Data collected included age, gender, fracture pattern, associated injuries, and management.
• Comparison with a historical cohort of pediatric pelvic fractures.

Main Results:

• The current cohort (53 children) showed an increase in identified pelvic fractures compared to the previous cohort.
• Associated injuries were common (113 additional injuries in 46 children), frequently involving fractures/dislocations and head injuries.
• Increased use of CT imaging, identification of more unstable pelvic fractures, and higher Injury Severity Scores (ISS) were noted, alongside a lower mortality rate.

Conclusions:

• Modern management has led to improved outcomes despite increased injury severity in pediatric pelvic fractures.
• The findings highlight evolving patterns in pediatric pelvic and acetabular fractures and their management.