Hemorrhage and pelvic fractures

Can J Surg. 1988 Mar;31(2):89-90.

Abstract

Hemorrhage is the major cause of death in pelvic fractures. In closed pelvic fractures the bleeding is usually self-limited. In the small number of patients with continuing hemorrhage there may be disruption of a major iliac vessel, which will require immediate exploration and repair. In a few patients continuing hemorrhage is due to disruption of a branch of the hypogastric artery, which may be identified by angiography and controlled by embolization. A management protocol is suggested for these patients.

MeSH terms

  • Angiography
  • Embolization, Therapeutic
  • Fractures, Bone / complications*
  • Hemorrhage / complications*
  • Hemorrhage / surgery
  • Hemorrhage / therapy
  • Humans
  • Pelvic Bones / injuries*
  • Vascular Surgical Procedures