Treatment of unstable pelvic ring injuries with an internal anterior fixator and posterior fixation: initial clinical series.

OBJECTIVES: To present a novel internal fixation device for stabilizing unstable pelvic fractures using supra-acetabular spinal pedicle screws and a subcutaneous connecting rod (INFIX).
SETTING: Level I trauma center.
DESIGN: Case series. PATIENTS: Twenty-four patients with rotational or vertically unstable pelvic fractures that reported to a level I trauma center. METHODS/INTERVENTION: Surgical treatment of unstable pelvic fractures included reduction, appropriate posterior fixation where indicated, and an anterior subcutaneous internal fixator. MAIN OUTCOME MEASUREMENT: Healing time, quality and loss of reduction, ease of nursing, incidence of complications, including nonunion, infection, and patient mobility and comfort.
RESULTS: In the present clinical series, all fractures healed without significant loss of reduction. There were no infections, delayed unions or nonunions. Nursing care was observed to be easier especially in the intensive care unit setting. Complications included unilateral anterior thigh paresthesias in 2 patients, and 1 patient each required repositioning of the pedicle screw and readjustment of screw rod junction. Patients tolerated the procedure well and were fairly mobile after the procedure.
CONCLUSIONS: The reported technique allows for a definitive and stable anterior fixation of vertically and rotationally unstable pelvic fractures when combined with the appropriate posterior fixation if indicated. The potential complications are acceptable with this technique and good outcomes were achieved. A second operative procedure is required for removal of the device. It is our view that its best indication is in obese individuals, in whom other options have shortcomings.