ONE -YEAR FUNCTIONAL OUTCOME OF NON-OPERATIVE MANAGEMENT OF PELVIC RING INJURIES.

Background: Pelvic ring injuries, though relatively uncommon, typically result from high-energy trauma and frequently involve multiple organ systems, contributing to considerable morbidity and mortality. The inherent stability of these injuries is a key determinant of functional recovery, particularly in cases managed non-operatively. Despite a substantial number of patients receiving conservative treatment, their outcomes remain inadequately documented. Objective: To evaluate short-term functional outcomes and associated factors among adult patients with pelvic ring injuries treated non-operatively. Methodology: A longitudinal study was conducted at Muhimbili Orthopedic Institute in Tanzania among patients with Pelvic ring injuries managed by non-operative methods. Their functional outcome was assessed at 12 months post-injury using the Majeed Pelvic Score. Results: Thirty-six patients met the inclusion criteria with a mean age of 39 ±11.64 years. Males constituted 55.6% of the study population; Most (88.9%) were under 50 years old. Motor vehicle crashes were the main cause of injury (75%), and Tile B pelvic fractures were the most common injury pattern (72.2%). After 12 months, 80.6% of patients achieved favorable functional outcomes. Multivariable analysis found that attending physiotherapy and not having other injuries were significant predictors of recovery (p < 0.01). Conclusion: Non–operative treatment can yield favorable functional results in the majority of patients with vertically stable pelvic ring injuries without concomitant injuries and good rehabilitative physiotherapy. It is therefore important to individualize patient care in optimizing outcomes following non-operative management.