Pelvic trauma management within the UK: a reflection of a failing trauma service.
During the past 2-3 years it has become increasingly difficult for specialist pelvic centres to provide appropriate treatment for patients. Recent data from 3 such units has highlighted unacceptable delays from referral to operation. This article presents this data, analyses the reasons for the delays and the consequences. The focus on waiting list targets is deflecting resources away from specialist trauma services (including pelvic units) and has resulted in serious interruptions in treatment. Urgent action is required to prevent the management of these patients being compromised.
Bircher
M
M
Department of Trauma, St. George's Hospital and Med School, Blackshaw Road, London SW17 0QT, UK. martindbircher@hotmail.com
Giannoudis
P V
PV
D050723:Fractures, Bone / Q000601:surgery*; D006779:Hospitals, Public / Q000592:standards; D006801:Humans; D010384:Pelvic Bones / Q000293:injuries*; D011787:Quality of Health Care; D013222:State Medicine / Q000458:organization & administration; D014193:Trauma Centers / Q000458:organization & administration / Q000592:standards*; D006113:United Kingdom