BACKGROUND: Pediatric pelvic fractures often appear radiographically benign despite significant injury to viscera. Vaginal injuries are rare, and therefore require a high index of suspicion. CASE: A 26-year-old female patient who sustained a pelvic fracture in a motorcycle accident at the age of 10 presented with vaginal stenosis precluding sexual intercourse. Patient menstruated through a fistula in the distal vaginal vault. Radiographic and dye studies showed almost complete vaginal obstruction with heterotopic ossification. An extensive 30-year review of the literature was conducted looking for documented cases of vaginal injuries secondary to pelvic injury. SUMMARY AND CONCLUSION: This is the only recorded case of a long-term vaginal complication with subsequent heterotopic ossification secondary to pelvic fracture. Preventing debilitating long-term sequelae from vaginal injuries requires close patient follow-up and age-appropriate assessments.
BACKGROUND: Pediatric pelvic fractures often appear radiographically benign despite significant injury to viscera. Vaginal injuries are rare, and therefore require a high index of suspicion. CASE: A 26-year-old female patient who sustained a pelvic fracture in a motorcycle accident at the age of 10 presented with vaginal stenosis precluding sexual intercourse. Patient menstruated through a fistula in the distal vaginal vault. Radiographic and dye studies showed almost complete vaginal obstruction with heterotopic ossification. An extensive 30-year review of the literature was conducted looking for documented cases of vaginal injuries secondary to pelvic injury. SUMMARY AND CONCLUSION: This is the only recorded case of a long-term vaginal complication with subsequent heterotopic ossification secondary to pelvic fracture. Preventing debilitating long-term sequelae from vaginal injuries requires close patient follow-up and age-appropriate assessments.