How (Un)Useful is the Pelvic Ring Stability Examination in Diagnosing Mechanically Unstable Pelvic Fractures in Blunt Trauma Patients?

Abstract

The presence of either pelvic deformity or unstable pelvic ring on physical examination has poor sensitivity for detection of mechanically unstable pelvic fractures in blunt trauma patients. Our study suggests that blunt trauma patients with Glasgow Coma Scale >13 and without pelvic pain or tenderness are unlikely to suffer an unstable pelvic fracture. A prospective study is needed to determine whether a set of clinical criteria can safely detect or exclude the presence of an unstable pelvic fracture.