No abstract

No abstract

No abstract

By reading this article you should be able to: Discuss the anatomy of the pelvis and classify fractures of the pelvis. Explain the sources of pelvic bleeding and discuss management options. Outline the surgical approaches to pelvic fixation. Recognise the risk of thromboembolism and suggest methods of reducing its risk. The management of patients with traumatic pelvic fractures remains a significant challenge requiring rapid evaluation and intervention from a multidisciplinary team. Typical mechanisms of injury include motor vehicle accidents, pedestrians struck by a motor vehicle, falls from height, and crush injuries. The overall mortality rate for all types of pelvic fractures ranges from 5% to 15% and increases considerably in those who are haemodynamically unstable on presentation. 1,2 Increasing age, open pelvic fractures, and severe head, chest, or intra-abdominal injury also increase the risk of mortality. Haemorrhage is the leading cause of death in these patients with bleeding from additional injuries being equally as likely to cause death as pelvic haemorrhage. Associated traumatic brain injuries are common and account for approximately 20% of early deaths. 3 The long-term implications include physical and mental health problems, which lead to a substantially reduced quality of life for survivors and significant socioeconomic implications for society. The key priorities in the management of high-energy pelvic fractures are patient resuscitation, fracture stabilisation, and definitive fixation. This article aims to detail the anaesthetic management of these patients through their hospital journey from presentation to postoperative care. It also outlines the function of the pelvis, relevant anatomy, and classification of pelvic injuries. Functions of the pelvis The term 'pelvis' is derived from the Latin word for 'basin' owing to its bowl-like structure at the base of the axial skeleton. It forms the junction between the upper body and lower limbs through which many vital structures pass. The functions of the pelvis include:

No abstract