Routine Postoperative Computed Tomography Scans Following Posterior Pelvic Fixation of Pelvic Ring Fractures: A...

To assess practices related to ordering computed tomography (CT) scans routinely after posterior pelvic ring fixation and revision surgery rates.

A 20-question cross-sectional survey.

Fellowship-trained orthopaedic traumatologists.

(1) Percentage of surgeons ordering a routing postoperative CT after posterior pelvic ring fixation, (2) Revision surgery rates based on routine CT scan results.

Responses were received from 57 surgeons. Practices varied regarding postoperative CT scans, with 20 surgeons (35%, group A) routinely ordering them and 37 surgeons (65%, group B) not ordering them on all patients. Group A were younger and with less years of experience than those in Group B. Most group A surgeons report a revision surgery rate of <1% based on results of the postoperative CT. Group A report routine postoperative scans were obtained to assess reduction, instrumentation placement, and for educational purposes. Group B did not obtain routine postoperative CTs because of the following: unlikely to change postoperative treatment course, adequate reduction and instrumentation placement assessed intraoperatively and by postoperative radiographs, and increased radiation exposure and cost to patients. Group B did report obtaining postop CT scans on select patients, with postoperative neurological deficit being the most common indication.

The routine use of postoperative CTs following posterior fixation of pelvic ring fractures is a controversial topic. Although we recognize the role for postoperative CT scans in select patients, our study questions the clinical utility of these scans in all patients and in conclusion do not recommend this protocol.