Lateral compression fractures of the pelvis: The importance of plain radiographs in the diagnosis and surgical management

The management of pelvic fractures varies according to the nature of the disruptive force and hence the type of injury. Stabilization with compression devices or slings, which may be warranted in some injuries are contraindicated in lateral compression fractures due to the exacerbation of pelvic collapse they will induce. The diagnosis of this type of fracture is therefore of the utmost importance, and yet is frequently missed due largely to ignorance of this type of injury and its significance. Despite mention of this entity in surgical publications, there is a paucity of information in the radiologic literature, and no definitive radiologic appearances have been described. Forty-three patients with lateral compression fractures admitted to the Shock Trauma Unit of the University of Maryland were studied, and the radiologic features, together with diagnostic signs specific to this injury are presented.