Preperitoneal pelvic packing as a salvage operation for postoperative retroperitoneal bleeding with hemodynamic instability after the Kocher-Langenbeck approach to the acetabulum: a case report.

Abstract

Pelvic fractures result from high-energy trauma, and when accompanied by hemorrhagic shock, the mortality rate increases to 40%. Pelvic fractures are anatomically categorized as pelvic ring disruptions and acetabular fractures, each requiring different treatment methods and approaches. Acetabular fractures, which also result from high-energy injuries, may be accompanied by hemorrhagic shock. Treatment options for pelvic fractures with hemorrhagic shock include angioembolization, preperitoneal pelvic packing (PPP), and emergency laparotomy. In hemodynamically stable patients, early total care may be attempted, and for acetabular fractures (posterior column), the Kocher-Langenbeck approach is the treatment of choice. This case report describes the use of PPP as a salvage operation for postoperative retroperitoneal bleeding with hemodynamic instability following a Kocher-Langenbeck approach for an acetabular fracture with pelvic ring injury. The patient was discharged without postoperative complications such as bone displacement or surgical site infection. While PPP is commonly employed as an initial treatment modality for pelvic fractures with hemorrhagic shock, it may also be valuable in managing postoperative retroperitoneal bleeding with hemorrhagic shock.