Diagnosis of a Broken Pelvis
Diagnosis of a Broken Pelvis is made through a combination of physical examination, imaging studies, and assessment of possible complications. A correct and timely diagnosis of a broken pelvis is crucial to prevent permanent damage. Identify internal bleeding, and determine whether surgery is required.
The diagnostic process begins with a clinical assessment. Doctors will ask about the injury, the mechanism of trauma (e.g. fall, vehicle accident), and the patient’s symptoms. The physical exam includes checking for pelvic instability, swelling, bruising, leg length discrepancies, and tenderness along the pelvic ring.
If the patient is in shock or unable to move, spinal precautions are maintained. Additionally, imaging is done while the patient remains stabilised. This is particularly important in suspected unstable fractures or when multiple injuries are involved.
X-rays are the initial diagnostic tool. Anteroposterior (AP) views of the pelvis can detect most types of fractures. However, subtle or complex injuries may not be visible on standard X-rays alone.
CT scans are often used to confirm the diagnosis and give a detailed view of the fracture pattern. They can identify displaced fractures, joint involvement, or bone fragments. CT scans also help in pre-surgical planning, especially in unstable or multi-fragment injuries.
Diagnosis of a Broken Pelvis
Ultrasound or FAST scans may be done in trauma cases to check for internal bleeding in the abdomen or pelvic cavity. MRI may be used to assess soft tissue damage, ligaments, or spinal involvement if neurological symptoms are present.
In some cases, urethral or bladder imaging (retrograde urethrogram or cystogram) may be required if blood is found in the urine or there is difficulty urinating.
In elderly patients with low-impact trauma, careful evaluation is necessary, as small fractures can easily be missed or mistaken for soft tissue pain.
A thorough diagnosis of a broken pelvis guides all further treatment decisions and ensures that life-threatening complications such as internal bleeding or organ injury are managed without delay.
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