Secure paediatric pelvic fracture external fixation using an intraoperative support device

Area of Science:

• Orthopedic surgery
• Pediatric trauma
• Medical imaging

Background:

• Secure fixation using half-pins in the iliac crest is crucial for pelvic external fixators.
• Iliac bone thickness varies, complicating accurate half-pin insertion, especially in pediatric pelvises which are narrower than adult pelves.

Observation:

• A case involving a pediatric pelvic fracture requiring external fixation is presented.
• Difficulty in accurate half-pin insertion was noted due to anatomical variations in the pediatric iliac crest.

Findings:

• Preoperative planning using three-dimensional computed tomography (3D CT) was employed.
• An intraoperative support device referencing the functional pelvic plane enabled accurate preoperative planning for half-pin insertion.

Implications:

• This approach demonstrates the potential for improved accuracy in pediatric pelvic external fixation.
• 3D CT-based planning can enhance surgical outcomes for complex pediatric pelvic fractures.
• The functional pelvic plane serves as a valuable reference for precise surgical navigation.