Fractured Pelvis Injuries
Pelvic fractures are devastating injuries that are associated with a number of complications that often require extensive rehabilitation. The pelvis consists of three major bones joined together in a ringed shape and held by strong ligaments.
Fractured Pelvis In Accident
Most pelvic fractures involve high-velocity forces such as those generated in a motorcycle or automobile accident, crush accident or fall. Men account for more pelvic fractures than women, representing about 57% to 75% of all pelvic injuries. Depending on the direction and degree of the force, these injuries can be life threatening and require surgical treatment.
Pelvis Fracture Symptoms
Individuals who incur pelvic fractures may endure the following symptoms:
- Severe pain, sometimes causing continual knee adjustment and/or hip position
- Swelling and bruising
- Shock, as a result of substantial bleeding
- Additional injuries to the legs, mid-section or head, as the result of trauma
Fractured Pelvis Risk to Teenagers
Growing teens, especially those involved in sports, are at risk for a particular type of pelvic fracture. Many injuries described as merely "pulled muscles" may actually be undetected avulsion fractures of the pelvis. These fractures usually occur with sudden muscle contractions. A small piece of bone from the lower back and part of the hip (isocheim), where the hamstring muscles attach, is torn away by these muscles.
Risk to Elderly Adults
Also at risk for pelvic fractures are elderly people with osteoporosis. An individual may fracture the pelvis during a fall from standing, such as when getting out of the bathtub or descending stairs. These injuries usually do not damage the structural integrity of the pelvic ring, but may fracture an individual bone.
Pelvis Fracture Diagnosis
To properly diagnose a pelvic fracture and the severity, your physician will order x-rays, or possibly a CT scan to determine a pelvic break and its severity, and will likely perform a leg examination to check nerves and blood vessels.
Pelvic Fracture Treatment
Surgery is usually required for pelvic fractures sustained in a trauma. Surgery can help realign the bones and cartilage, restore stability and clear bone debris from the area. Surgery may include a device which is screwed into the pelvis for stability and assessment pelvic external fixation consists of pins usually inserted into the iliac bones and then connected together by clamps and bars. Internal fixation refers to plates and screws applied directly onto the fracture sites after realignment. Traction may also be required.
Individuals who sustain pelvic fractures may expect up to 6 to 12 months of recovery before returning to heavy work or sports. A vocational counselor might be necessary for those who are unable to return to their previous occupation due to residual impairment.
Pelvic Fracture Injury Attorneys
If you or a loved one has suffered from a fractured pelvis resulting from a car, truck, motorcycle or fall accident you may be entitled to compensation for your injury. Consult with a Las Vegas pelvic fracture attorney immediately to protect your rights and seek recovery for the pain and suffering you have endured as the result of your pelvic injury.
