Chiropractic Manipulation Causing Anterior-Posterior Compression Type Pelvic Ring Injury: A Case Report

Area of Science:

• Orthopedic Surgery
• Trauma Management
• Neurology

Background:

• Anteroposterior compression (APC) pelvic ring injuries typically result from high-energy trauma.
• Patients with underlying conditions like quadriplegia and osteopenia may have increased susceptibility to pelvic injuries.
• Chiropractic manipulation, while generally safe, can pose risks in specific patient populations.

Observation:

• A patient with a history of quadriplegia and osteopenia sustained an APC type pelvic ring injury following chiropractic manipulation.
• The injury mechanism was considered unique, deviating from common high-energy causes.
• The patient underwent emergent surgical stabilization for the pelvic ring injury.

Findings:

• The surgical intervention for the APC pelvic ring injury was successful.
• The patient experienced an excellent outcome with no complications at a 3.5-year follow-up.
• This case demonstrates a rare instance of pelvic ring injury from a low-energy mechanism in a vulnerable patient.

Implications:

• Healthcare providers performing spinal or pelvic manipulation should exercise caution in patients with pre-existing conditions such as quadriplegia and osteopenia.
• Increased awareness of potential pelvic ring injuries from manipulation is crucial for at-risk patient groups.
• This case contributes to understanding atypical injury mechanisms in orthopedic trauma.