engleski

Combined Ipsilateral Fractures of the Pelvis and the Femur

Aim of the study is to evaluate treatment results of ipsilateral pelvic and femoral fractures also know as "floating hip" with special emphasis on complications. Between September 1991 and December 2001, 32 patients with 33 ipsilateral fractures of the pelvis and femur were treated in our hospital. There were 20 men and 12 women. The average age was 28 years (range 16-78 years). The ipsilateral fractures were divided into three groups. All fractures of the femur, 10 out of 20 fractures of the pelvis ring and 10 out of 12 acetabular fractures were treated by internal fixation. In 18 patients internal fixation was performed on both fractures components during the same procedure. 24 out of 32 patients were followed up (6 patients were lost in the follow up, there were 2 posttraumatic deaths). At the time final examination 10 patients had returned to previous activities without limitations, 8 patients had to change their occupation. Two patients retired, 4 patients were disabled due to posttraumatic conditions. The "Floating hip" is a severe injury with a high morbidity and mortality rate. Haemodynamic stabilization must be the first priority in the treatment. The treatment of this fracture combination follows the guidelines established for the individual fractures. We agree with other authors that this type of fracture-combination is not a specific entity.

floating hip; fracture; pelvis; acetabulum

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