Urologic injuries in pelvic ring disruptions

Pelvic ring disruptions are the result of high energy blunt trauma and are associated with other significant injuries in greater than 50% of the cases. These injuries may involve neurovascular structures and other organ systems. Lower urinary tract injuries may occur in as much as 25% of patients with pelvic ring disruptions. Coordinated care between the orthopaedist and urologist is required for successful treatment of the urologic and pelvic injury. Of primary importance to the orthopaedist is the potential for infection after open stabilization of the anterior arch. When contaminated urine communicates with the anterior arch, the possibility of infection exists. Early repair of bladder disruptions with simultaneous anterior arch plating minimizes this risk. The treatment of urethral disruptions and the safest method for urinary drainage remain controversial, however.