Vascular injuries associated with pelvic fractures

Area of Science:

• Trauma Surgery
• Vascular Surgery
• Radiology

Background:

• Pelvic fractures, frequently resulting from blunt trauma, are linked to high mortality and morbidity.
• Hemorrhage is the primary cause of death in approximately 60% of patients with pelvic fractures.

Observation:

• This study reviews four cases of vascular injuries associated with severe pelvic fractures.
• One case involved a delayed false aneurysm of the superior gluteal artery, treated with embolization.
• Three cases presented with acute hemorrhage requiring immediate angiography and embolization of hypogastric vessels.

Findings:

• Pelvic arteriography with selective embolization is a recommended treatment for hemorrhage secondary to severe pelvic fractures.
• Early intervention with embolization can effectively control acute bleeding.
• Delayed complications, such as false aneurysms, can also be managed with embolization.

Implications:

• Improved management strategies, including angiography and embolization, can decrease mortality rates associated with pelvic fracture hemorrhage.
• The Military Antishock Trousers (MAST) suit may serve as a useful adjunct in managing these patients.
• These findings support the integration of interventional radiology techniques in the trauma care pathway for pelvic fractures.