Fragility Fractures of Pelvis

Abstract

Osteoporotic pelvic injury or fragility fractures of pelvis (FFP) are the third most common fragility fractures after hip and distal radius fractures and the incidence is increasing [1]. As there is increasing awareness of this entity, the definition, diagnosis, classification, and the overall management needs to be investigated. The consensus of definition of FFP is fracture occurring in patients over 60 years old after minimal trauma or loads experienced during daily living. The diagnosis of FFP can be difficult and the optimal treatment remains debated. Like other fragility fractures, the mechanism is typically a low energy fall. The management of FFP must take the consideration of the patient as a whole and considerably differs from high energy pelvic ring injuries. FFPs are associated with other fragility fractures such as hip fractures, upper limb fractures, and vertebral collapse fractures. Together these injuries contribute significantly to pain, short-term morbidity and difficulty in nursing. Patients are often in their 80s or 90s, with female predominance. Patients have multiple co-morbidities are at risk of developing complications and deterioration in mobility [2]. The treatment goals are prompt and adequate pain relief, early mobilisation, and eventual fracture union.