Pelvic ring fractures

Summary

There is weak evidence from four retrospective cohort studies that show that early versus delayed fixation of pelvic ring fractures is associated with a reduced length of hospital stay and a reduction in pulmonary complications. Short-term functional status may also be greater among patients receiving early versus delayed fixation. However, these results may be influenced by confounding by indication. Randomized controlled trials are recommended to verify these results, as is the establishment of a consistent definition for „early” versus „delayed,” and to determine the effects of early versus delayed fixation on long-term patient reported outcomes and quality of life.

Appendix

Modified Barthel index

Measures level of patient independence in ten activities of daily living: feeding, transfers, personal hygiene, toilet transfers, bathing, walking, stairs, dressing, and bladder and bowel continence, with a maximum possible score of 100. A higher score indicates better function / greater independence. The mobility component was used in this study [Plaisier].

• 1 Mahoney F I, Barthel D W. Functional evaluation: the Barthel index.  Maryland State Medical Journal. 1965;  14 61-65
• 2 Granger C V, Albrecht G L, Hamilton B B. Outcome of comprehensive medical rehabilitation: Measurement by PULSES and the Barthel index.  Archives of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation. 1979;  60 145-154