High-energy pediatric pelvic and acetabular fractures.

Overview

Pediatric pelvic and acetabular fractures are rare injuries. They are almost always the result of a high-energy injury mechanism. A full trauma protocol should be instituted, having a high index of suspicion for associated life-threatening injuries. In the past, it was recommended that almost all of these injuries be treated nonoperatively. However, pelvic and acetabular fractures do not all remodel well. Prospective studies are needed to establish optimal treatment guidelines. Until then, in the presence of instability or significant displacement, operative fixation by a pelvic and acetabular fracture specialist should be considered to allow the best possible outcome.