Journal of orthopaedic trauma
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External rotation of the disrupted hemipelvis is a common deformity after pelvic ring trauma, especially in anteroposterior compression injury patterns. This displacement is associated with significant pelvic hemorrhage. ⋯ In such scenarios, circumferential pelvic area sheeting does not always achieve a complete reduction. We present a technique of internal rotation and taping of the lower extremities as an alternative or supplemental pelvic closed reduction method.
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To analyze the radiographic, clinical, and functional results of triangular osteosynthesis constructs for the treatment of vertically unstable comminuted transforaminal sacral fractures. ⋯ Triangular osteosynthesis fixation is a reliable form of fixation that allows early full weight-bearing at 6 weeks while preventing loss of reduction in comminuted vertical shear transforaminal sacral fractures. For this study group, operative reduction was maintained until healing in 95% of patients. However, the 1-year follow-up shows a substantial rate of potential technical problems and complications. Of primary concern were the asymmetric L5 tilting with L5-S1 facet joint distraction and the need for a second surgery in all patients to remove painful fixation. Iatrogenic nerve injury occurred in 5 patients (13%) and is thought to arise secondary to fracture manipulation and reduction. We recommend selective use of this technique for comminuted transforaminal sacral fractures in situations only where reliable iliosacral or trans-sacral screw fixation is not obtainable.