Algorithms for early management of pelvic fractures.

The successful management of pelvic fractures depends upon proper diagnosis and timely treatment. Severe pelvic fractures are life-threatening injuries in which a clear-cut treatment strategy is required to make decisions within the shortest possible time. An algorithm is presented in the form of a flow chart that has proven useful in facing difficult situations in the initial management of pelvic fractures. Decision-making is based on progressive clinical examination and a series of key questions. The sequence starts with the arrival of the patient, followed by the resuscitation phase, proceding through the initial examination and assessment of the patient to the final diagnosis and appropriate treatment. A safe approach to pelvic fractures is gained by following the proposed algorithm. The algorithm is an excellent teaching tool, but no guarantee can be given since every case is different and requires a specific approach.