External fixation of double vertical pelvic fractures with a trapezoid compression frame.
Seventeen patients with double vertical fractures of the pelvic girdle were treated by early reduction and subsequent fixation of the pelvic ring with a trapezoid frame. This provided firm fixation of the fractured pelvis. With the frame attached, patients without associated injuries were allowed out of bed within 3 weeks and in every case the frame was removed 6 weeks after its application. External fixation of the pelvic fracture afforded relief from pain and greatly facilitated nursing. At follow-up, all the fractures had united in the position secured initially by the frame and no patient complained of pain in the sacro-iliac joints.
D000293:Adolescent; D000328:Adult; D005260:Female; D005592:Fracture Fixation / Q000379:methods*; D006801:Humans; D007902:Length of Stay; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D010384:Pelvic Bones / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging / Q000293:injuries / Q000601:surgery; D011859:Radiography; D013997:Time Factors