Young-Burgess Classification of Pelvic Ring Fractures as a Diagnostic Tool to Predict Vascular Injury Patterns and Targeted Embolization: A 10-Year Retrospective Study of Patients at a Single Regional Trauma Center in South Korea.

Abstract

Purpose: Pelvic ring fractures are associated with high morbidity and mortality due to severe hemorrhage. The Young-Burgess (Y-B) classification is widely used to assess fracture mechanism and stability, but its ability to predict transfusion needs and vascular injury patterns remains unclear. This study analyzed the correlation between Y-B classification, transfusion volume, and embolization patterns in pelvic fracture patients.

Materials and methods: We retrospectively studied 207 patients with pelvic ring fractures who underwent angiography at Dankook University Hospital trauma center between February 2014 and August 2023. We collected data on demographics, Y-B classification, transfusion volumes within 24 hours, and embolized vessels. Embolization was performed based on angiographic vascular injury evidence.

Results: Of the 207 patients, we performed embolization in 153 patients (73.9%). There was no significant difference between the mean age of 61.3 years in the embolization group and 58.7 years in the non-embolization group. However, embolization rates based on Y-B classification differed significantly (P=0.009). Unstable fractures (lateral compression type 3 [LC3], anteroposterior compression type 3 [APC3], vertical shear [VS] type) were associated with high transfusion volumes and embolization rates. The superior gluteal artery (LC3), internal iliac artery (APC3), and iliolumbar artery (VS) were most frequently embolized.

Conclusion: Unstable pelvic ring fractures are associated with increased transfusion requirements and risk of major vascular injury necessitating embolization. The Y-B classification provides relevant guidelines for risk stratification and targeted intervention. It is recommended to prepare in advance for large volumes of transfusion and for prompt vascular evaluation in unstable fracture patterns.