Advanced Trauma Life Support Radiographic Trauma Series: Part 3 - the Pelvis Radiograph

Abstract

Pelvic fractures are often high energy injuries and are associated with a high morbidity and mortality. The plain antero-posterior pelvis radiograph is part of the advanced trauma life support radiographic trauma series and is used as a screening test. The main limitation of plain antero-posterior pelvic radiographs is the difficulty in identification of some fractures, in particular posterior fractures, therefore radiographic findings should be considered in conjunction with clinical assessment.