American Journal of Roentgenology, Vol 155, 1169-1175, Copyright © 1990 by American Roentgen Ray Society
Fracture of the pelvis: current concepts of classification
JW Young and CS Resnik
Department of Radiology, University of Maryland Medical System/Hospital, Baltimore 21201.
Historically, pelvic fractures have been classified according to whether
there is pelvic stability or instability, although confusion has been
caused by the inclusion of many eponyms that mainly reflect the observation
of a single author on a particular fracture pattern. Pennal and Tile were
the first authors to attempt to classify pelvic fractures according to the
force vector causing them. This concept was refined by Young and Burgess,
who provided a more detailed classification system, again relating to force
vectors. This article focuses on this classification and its significance
with regard to pelvic stability, type of pelvic disruption, and hence the
type of corrective forces that should be applied in the surgical
management. Use of a classification system of pelvic fractures based on
force vectors allows the orthopedic surgeon to apply external fixation in
the most appropriate manner to correct pelvic deformity and to maximize
patients' survival.
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