Surgical Techniques for Pelvic Fracture Stabilization

Pelvic fractures, often resulting from high‐energy trauma, present complex challenges due to the three‐dimensional anatomy of the pelvic ring and proximity of major neurovascular structures. Goals of surgical management include rapid haemorrhage control, restoration of pelvic stability and early mobilisation. Traditional methods encompass open reduction and internal fixation with dynamic compression or locking plates applied to the ilial body and pubic rami, as well as external fixation devices to temporarily stabilise the anterior ring. Percutaneous iliosacral screw fixation has gained traction for posterior‐ring injuries, offering less soft‐tissue disruption and reduced blood loss. Advances in computer‐assisted navigation, intraoperative imaging and patient‐specific implant design have further refined accuracy of screw placement and optimised implant stress distribution. Finite element modelling now informs plate geometry and screw orientation to enhance construct stiffness while minimising hardware prominence. These innovations collectively aim to improve functional outcomes, reduce complications and expand minimally invasive options in both human and veterinary settings.

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Surgical Techniques for Pelvic Fracture Stabilization publication trend

The graph below shows the total number of articles in surgical techniques for pelvic fracture stabilization across all publications each year (not limited to Nature Index journals).

Technical terms

Pelvic ring: The bony framework comprising the sacrum, ilium, ischium and pubis, integrity of which is essential for load transfer and stability.

External fixator: A stabilising device composed of percutaneous pins and external rods used to temporarily secure pelvic fractures and control bleeding.

Percutaneous fixation: Minimally invasive introduction of guide wires and screws through small skin incisions to stabilise pelvic ring disruptions.

Iliosacral screw: A trans-sacral implant placed across the sacroiliac joint to stabilise posterior pelvic‐ring injuries.

Finite element analysis: A computer-based method that simulates mechanical behaviour of bone-implant constructs under load to inform design.

Computer-assisted navigation: Intraoperative guidance technology using real-time imaging and tracking to improve accuracy of implant placement.

References

1. Preliminary study on a novel dedicated plate for iliac fractures in dogs. PLOS ONE (2022).
2. Fluoroscopically‐assisted closed reduction and percutaneous fixation of sacroiliac luxations in cats using 2.4 mm headless cannulated compression screws: Description, evaluation and clinical outcome. Veterinary Surgery (2024).
3. Feline sacroiliac luxation: comparison of fluoroscopy-controlled freehand vs. computer-navigated drilling in the sacrum—a cadaveric study. Frontiers in Veterinary Science (2025).