Functional and radiological outcomes following sacroiliac screw fixation of posterior pelvic ring injuries: A retrospective study

Background and Aims

Posterior pelvic ring disruption has been associated with high-energy trauma, and significant morbidity and mortality. We aimed to determine functional and radiological outcomes following sacroiliac screw fixation of posterior pelvic ring injuries at a major trauma centre.

Methods

Patients who underwent sacroiliac screw fixation at our institution, between 1^st January 2013 – 1^st April 2020 were identified from a database. Electronic systems were accessed to obtain information regarding patient demographics, injuries sustained, and interventions performed. Patients were contacted via telephone regarding clinical outcomes (EQ5D3L, EQVAS and Majeed scores). Radiographical outcomes were assessed using the Keshishyan cross-measure method.

Results

115 patients were identified. The mean age at injury was 51.6 years (17–84 years). Most injuries resulted from falls and road traffic collisions (83.5 %). Eighty patients (69.6 %) sustained additional non-pelvic injuries and twenty-nine (25.2 %) underwent a non-pelvic procedure, most commonly limb or clavicle fracture fixation (N = 19). Thirty-day and 12-month all-cause mortality rates were 0.9 % and 1.7 %, respectively. Clinical outcomes were obtained for 82/105 possible patients (78.1 %). Regarding EQ5D3L, 36/82 patients (43.9 %) reported a full health status; only six patients reported severe problems. The mean Majeed score was 70.3. 49/59 patients (86.0 %) returned to their pre-injury employment. A significant association was found between the clinical outcomes (EQ5D3L index, EQVAS, Majeed score) and the pre-operative asymmetry value and deformity index but not the post-operative asymmetry value and deformity index. One patient (0.9 %) required revision for infection, 12 patients (10.4 %) reported post-operative lower limb paraesthesia, and one patient (0.9 %) experienced a post-operative deep vein thrombus.

Conclusions

Most patients with pelvic ring injuries experienced high-energy trauma, often resulting in multiple injuries and operative interventions. Nevertheless, mortality rates were low, and most patients experienced either mild or no functional difficulties. The magnitude of the pelvic deformity pre-operatively correlates with post-operative clinical scores.