The application of pelvic pins in halo-pelvic distraction. An anatomic study

The application of the pelvic hoop for halo-pelvic distraction, as described by O'Brien, has led to serious abdominal complications. A study of mature Caucasian pelves as compared to the smaller East Indian pelves has shown that in the larger pelvis, when the gluteal tubercle and posterior superior iliac spine are used as landmarks, as advocated by O'Brien, the pins will invariably pass within the soft tissue elements of the inner pelvis instead of being entirely within the bony ilium, as O'Brien noted in the Chinese pelves. On the basis of pelvic measurements and observations, the authors recommend an open technique for passage of the pins.