Pelvic fractures: experience of pelvic ring fractures at a major trauma centre

In this review, we discuss the imaging classification of pelvic ring fractures in the context of our experience of reporting trauma computed tomography (CT) in a major trauma centre. Pelvic ring fractures are potentially significant injuries with risk of significant haemorrhage and morbidity. This review details the use of classification systems in determining the mechanism and severity of injury, with discussion of the features of the Young and Burgess classification system. We demonstrate the different types of pelvic ring fracture with examples from trauma CT, and with reference to the distribution and frequency of these injuries in trauma patients. This review will allow the reader to assess trauma CT for significant pelvic ring injury and identify features of instability.