> How are pre-hospital people treating pelvic fractures in your area?
Preserve clot - minimal movement, gentle handling, minimum of
rolling. Punch anyone who tries to 'spring' the pelvis. Fit pelvic belt
(elasticated version of the old 'many-tailed-bandage' with velcro
fastening) on basis of mechanism of injury. Minimal iv fluid to preserve systolic of 70
(90 mmHg if associated head injury). Take to a hospital that
understands the condition! (NB: Lower body crush with weight in-situ may need to be treated
differently).
Timothy J Coats MD FRCS FFAEM
Senior Lecturer in Accident and Emergency/Pre-Hospital Care
Royal London Hospital, UK.