Temporary Noninvasive Pelvic Stabilization

Abstract

Pelvic ring stabilization is the basic emergency care measure in unstable pelvic injuries. The purpose of the work was to determine the efficacy of pelvic bandage in patients with unstable pelvic fractures and persistent intrapelvic hemorrhage. Thirty seven patients were divided into 2 groups. In study group (n=19) primary pelvic stabilization was performed using extempore pelvic bandage; in patients from control group (n=18) external fixation devices were applied. Duration of pelvic fixation procedure, hemodynamics and quality of reposition were assessed. Duration of pelvic bandage application was significantly lower than that required for pelvic external fixation - 2.4±0.8 min versus 29±3.2 min. That advantage enabled to use the bandage before the diagnosis was completed and other injuries were eliminated - in 6.0±2.1 min after patient’s admission while the time before the application of external fixation device made up 86.0±5.6 min ( p < 0.001). Application of pelvic bandage enabled to stabilize blood pressure in the course diagnostic and treatment measures. In some cases pelvic roentgenography revealed excessive internal rotation when bandage was applied. So, application of pelvic bandage is a simple, effective, rapid method for temporary pelvic fixation.