PEDIATRIC PELVIC FRACTURES

Pediatric pelvic fractures, which account for 1% to 2% of pediatric fractures, are usually associated with high-energy trauma and require a thorough examination for additional life-threatening injuries. Radiographs and computed tomography are used to identify the fracture and associated injuries. Treat-ment of these injuries should be individualized according to the patient’s age, fracture classification, stability of the pelvic ring, associated injuries and hemodynamic status of the patient. Pediatric pelvic fractures are treated conservatively with avoidance of loading and gradual return to activity. Patients with more than 2 millimeters of intra-articular or triradiate cartilage displacement should undergo open reduction internal fixation. In patients with more than 2 centimeters of pelvic ring displacement, external fixation is necessary as a limb length difference may occur. In pelvic injuries accompanied by hip dislocation, avascular necrosis of the femoral head may develop. In addition, deficits and myositis ossificans may occur due to sciatic nerve femoral nerve or lumbosacral plexus nerve injuries.