Navigating the Complexity of Broken Pelvis: Causes, Symptoms, and Care

/ Delta Emergency Support Training/

The pelvis, often overlooked in our daily lives, plays a pivotal role in our body's structure and stability. Yet, when a pelvic fracture occurs, it thrusts this often-neglected region into the spotlight as a site of pain, danger, and potential life-threatening complications. In this comprehensive blog, we embark on a journey to demystify pelvic fractures, exploring their origins, the subtle signs that signal their presence, and the crucial steps to provide immediate care. Join us as we uncover the intricacies of pelvic fractures, enabling you to recognize, respond to, and support those affected by this serious and often underestimated injury.

X-Ray of the pelvic region.

High-Impact Mechanisms of Injury (MOI) Leading to Pelvic Fractures

Pelvic fractures often arise from high-impact mechanisms of injury (MOI), which can deliver a devastating blow to the body's central support structure. It's essential to grasp the specific scenarios where these fractures commonly occur to take preventive measures and promptly address them. Here, we explore three prominent MOIs associated with pelvic fractures:

1. Car Accidents with Intrusion:

  • Car accidents, especially those involving intrusion into the passenger compartment, pose a significant risk of pelvic fractures. When a vehicle collides with another object or experiences a sudden deceleration, the forces involved can be transferred to the occupants. In such cases, the pelvis may absorb a substantial portion of the impact, leading to fractures. The use of seatbelts and properly installed airbags is crucial in reducing this risk.

2. Being Struck as a Pedestrian:

  • Pedestrians involved in accidents with moving vehicles face a heightened risk of pelvic fractures. When a pedestrian is struck by a vehicle, the impact forces are directed towards the pelvis, which can result in fractures. The severity of the injury depends on various factors, including the speed of the vehicle, point of impact, and the pedestrian's position. Awareness, adherence to traffic rules, and practicing safe pedestrian behaviors are essential in preventing these accidents.

3. High-Impact Sports, such as Horse Riding:

  • Engaging in high-impact sports like horse riding, skiing, or contact sports increases the likelihood of experiencing pelvic fractures. These activities expose individuals to abrupt movements, falls, or collisions with considerable force. In horse riding, for instance, an unexpected fall from a galloping horse can generate enough energy to fracture the pelvis. Proper safety gear, training, and adhering to safety guidelines can mitigate the risk associated with these sports.

    Recognizing Indications of a Pelvic Fracture

    When it comes to pelvic fractures, understanding the potential indications is paramount for swift intervention and treatment. These fractures often manifest with a combination of alarming symptoms, each serving as a red flag to signal the severity of the injury. Here, we explore some of the most common and telling indications:

    1. Pelvic Instability:

  • One of the hallmark signs of a pelvic fracture is pelvic instability. This instability can cause a profound sense of discomfort and difficulty in maintaining balance and mobility. Individuals may experience a noticeable shift or misalignment of the pelvic bones, which can be felt when gently pressing on both sides of the pelvis. This instability can be particularly unsettling, making even simple movements a challenge.

    2. Excruciating Pain:

  • Pelvic fractures are often accompanied by excruciating pain in the pelvic region. This pain is typically sharp, intense, and may radiate to the lower back or down the legs. The severity of the pain can vary depending on the extent and location of the fracture. It is important to note that the intensity of the pain may not correlate directly with the severity of the fracture, making it imperative to seek medical attention regardless of the perceived pain level.

    3. Splayed Legs:

  • Another telltale sign of a pelvic fracture is the positioning of the legs. In many cases, the legs may appear splayed or twisted unnaturally due to the disruption of the pelvic bones. This visual indication can be distressing and further underscores the need for immediate medical evaluation.

    4. Bruising Indicative of Internal Bleeding:

  • Bruising around the pelvic area can be indicative of internal bleeding, a critical concern associated with pelvic fractures. As the fractured bones can damage blood vessels within the pelvis, blood may accumulate in the surrounding tissues, causing visible bruising. This external sign of internal bleeding should not be overlooked, as it necessitates urgent medical attention.

    Treatment of Pelvic Fractures

    When a suspected pelvic fracture is encountered, the immediate goal is to provide stabilization and support while minimizing the risk of further injury. Proper treatment is essential to optimize outcomes and reduce complications. Here is a step-by-step guide to treating pelvic fractures:

    1. Manual Stabilization:

  • The first and most crucial step in managing a suspected pelvic fracture is to provide manual stabilization. This involves gently supporting the pelvis with your hands to minimize movement. Care must be taken to avoid putting pressure directly on the fractured area to prevent exacerbating the injury. Manual stabilization helps in reducing pain and the risk of further damage.

    2. Binding the Feet Together:

  • To address the splayed legs often associated with pelvic fractures and return them to a more anatomically aligned position, binding the feet together is recommended. This can be achieved by using a bandage or cloth to secure the ankles together. The goal is to maintain alignment and prevent further displacement of the fractured bones.

    3. Application of a Commercial Pelvic Binder:

  • Commercial pelvic binders, such as the T-pod, are specially designed to provide effective stabilization for pelvic fractures. These devices are easy to apply and can help bring the fractured pelvic bones together, reducing pain and the risk of internal bleeding. Properly positioning and securing the pelvic binder is essential for its effectiveness.

    4. Improvised Binding with a Sheet and Clips:

  • In situations where a commercial pelvic binder is not available, improvising with a sheet or any strong fabric, along with clips or other fasteners, can provide temporary stabilization. The sheet is wrapped tightly around the pelvis and secured in place to minimize movement and maintain alignment. While not as effective as commercial binders, this method can still be valuable in emergencies.

  • 5. Administering High-Flow Oxygen:

  • The shock that often accompanies pelvic fractures can be life-threatening. Administering high-flow oxygen is a critical measure to help the body compensate and mitigate the effects of shock. Oxygen supplementation ensures that vital organs receive adequate oxygenation, reducing the risk of organ failure and improving the patient's chances of survival.

    In Conclusion: Empowering Knowledge, Saving Lives, and Joining Delta Emergency

    Our journey through pelvic fractures has highlighted the critical need for understanding this injury. Recognizing the signs, providing immediate care, and seeking prompt medical attention are paramount. Knowledge is power, and here, it can be lifesaving.

    Pelvic fractures are complex, with hidden dangers such as internal bleeding and shock. Armed with this information, you're better prepared to respond effectively.

    Joining Delta Emergency for your professional responder needs ensures you have access to comprehensive training, cutting-edge equipment, and a community committed to making a difference. Together, we can minimize the impact of pelvic fractures and provide the support and care that individuals deserve on their path to recovery.