The pelvis is a ring of bone that carries the weight of the upper body to the legs, and the acetabulum is the socket of the hip joint. High-energy injuries such as road accidents and falls from height can break this ring, often together with other fractures. Treatment is planned around a CT scan: some fractures heal with rest and protected walking, while displaced fractures need surgery to restore the shape of the pelvis and the smoothness of the hip joint.
When is it needed?
- Pelvic ring fractures
- Acetabular (hip socket) fractures
- Sacral and sacroiliac joint injuries
- Multiple fractures after major trauma
- Fractures that healed out of position
- Fragility fractures of the pelvis in older adults
How it is done
- 1Stabilise first
In the acute phase, bleeding and pain are controlled and the pelvis is stabilised, following trauma (ATLS) principles.
- 2Plan with 3D imaging
A CT scan with 3D reconstruction shows exactly how the bone has broken, so the surgical approach can be chosen precisely.
- 3Restore the anatomy
Displaced fragments are put back in place and held with plates and screws, sometimes through small incisions with percutaneous screws.
- 4Protected walking
Most patients start walking with crutches or a walker within days, increasing weight on the leg as the bone heals.
Advantages
- Fellowship training dedicated to pelvic and acetabular surgery
- Minimally invasive screw fixation when the fracture allows
- Early mobilisation to prevent clots and stiffness
- Long-term follow-up of the hip joint
Recovery
- Days 1–3Sitting up and first steps with support.
- Weeks 6–12Gradual increase in weight bearing as X-rays show healing.
- Months 3–6Return to most daily activities and work.
Common questions
Does every pelvic fracture need surgery?
No. Stable fractures are often treated without surgery. Surgery is advised when the pelvic ring is unstable or the hip socket is displaced.
Will I walk normally again?
Most patients return to independent walking. Accurate restoration of the hip socket is the most important factor for the long-term result.
Are the plates removed later?
Usually not. Pelvic implants are normally left in place unless they cause a problem.
This information is general and does not replace a medical consultation. Every case is assessed individually.
