Stable Lateral Compression Pelvic Ring Injury Requiring Operative Treatment due to Bladder Impingement: A Case Report

Area of Science:

• Orthopedic Surgery
• Urology
• Trauma Management

Background:

• Pelvic ring injuries can present with associated genitourinary trauma.
• Lateral compression Type I (LC I) pelvic injuries are typically considered stable.
• Bladder impalement by bony fragments is an uncommon complication.

Purpose of the Study:

• To report a rare case of bladder injury secondary to a stable LC I pelvic ring fracture.
• To emphasize the diagnostic and management considerations for such injuries.

Main Methods:

• Case report of a 25-year-old male skier with a pelvic ring injury.
• Radiographic and clinical assessment for fracture stability and urologic involvement.
• Surgical fixation of the pelvic fracture and urologic co-management.

Main Results:

• The patient presented with a displaced bony fragment impinging on the bladder wall, causing painful urination.
• Operative fixation of the pelvic fracture was performed.
• The patient experienced excellent outcomes at 1-year follow-up with resolution of symptoms.

Conclusions:

• This case highlights a rare urologic complication associated with a stable LC I pelvic ring injury.
• Thorough imaging review, clinical history, and physical examination are crucial for identifying and managing such injuries.
• Multidisciplinary urologic and orthopedic management leads to favorable patient outcomes.