Pelvic fractures in children: A follow-up in 20 children treated conservatively

Twenty children aged 2–10 years (mean age 6 years) with pelvic fractures, most of them after having had road traffic accidents (RTA) and a fall from height were reviewed, with a follow-up of 3–13 years (mean 8 years). Initial treatment consisted of intensive care and cardiorespiratory stabilization of the patients. In all children, conservative treatment of pelvic fractures was used, consisting mainly of skin traction of the lower limb of the affected side. Follow-up results in 19 of 20 children were excellent or good with regard to function and range of motion (ROM) of both hips, despite radiographic evidence of pelvic deformities. In our experience, the guidelines for treating children with pelvic fractures differ from those for adults. Surgery, either internal or external fixation, should be used only as a last resort when conventional means are exhausted. Various aspects of pelvic fractures in children are reviewed and discussed.