Traumatic injuries: imaging of pelvic fractures

Abstract. Pelvic trauma includes a great variety of very polymorphous lesions, differing from each other by their anatomical aspect, their context and therapeutic implication: In order to be efficient, the radiologist first has to know diagnostic value of each radiological technique, in order to suggest the investigation strategy appropriate to any clinical situation. Then, he must be able to accurately describe fractures and to include them into a classification in agreement with the clinician. Pelvic fractures form a polymorphous group. In the isolated acetabular fractures, function is mainly at stake. Radiological assessment relies upon good-quality plain films completed by CT imaging in fine slices with multiplanar reconstruction. Letournel's classification remains the reference standard. Management consists mainly of re-establishing a joint congruence to prevent early coxarthrosis. Pelvic fractures often occur in violent trauma and are associated with visceral lesions, putting vital prognosis at stake. Radiological assessment must be included in multidisciplinary management and CT imaging stands for the most complete and least time-consuming device, allowing for investigation of both visceral and osseous lesions. In case of hemodynamic shock, external fracture stabilization and embolization of pelvic bleeding are preponderant. Tile/Association for Osteosynthesis classification is the most used presently. It allows good description of mechanisms and lesions and more adapted management.