Locked book pubic symphysis: A case report in a resource-limited setting in sub-Sahara Africa

Abstract

HighlightsLocked pubic symphysis is a serious injury of the pelvis.Very few cases has been reported in the literature.This nosological entity shows peculiarities in its manually difficult reduction and associated complications.A good outcome can be obtained after management with simple gestures, possible even in ressource-limited settings.

Case Report on Locked Pubic Symphysis with Concomitant Ipsilateral Acetabular Fracture

“…Locked or overlapping symphysis pubis is lateral compression injury where the intact pubis on one side moves behind or rarely in front of the contralateral intact pubis. [1][2][3][4][5][6][7][8][9] It is caused by hyperextension and adduction forces on the hip and femur of the affected side. Theoretically, internal or external rotation of the femur displaces the pubic bone posterior or anterior to the contra lateral intact pubic body.…”

“…Urethral injury is commonly associated in patients with locked symphysis pubis, usually manifesting with a distended bladder and blood at the urethral meatus. 1,5,6 Another commonly associated injury is an injury to the posterior pelvic ring structure which could be either ligamentous or fracture on the sacral bone. 2,5,6 The locked pubis symphysis might better fit under the 61-B2 with AO classification.…”

“…1,5,6 Another commonly associated injury is an injury to the posterior pelvic ring structure which could be either ligamentous or fracture on the sacral bone. 2,5,6 The locked pubis symphysis might better fit under the 61-B2 with AO classification.…”

“…This unique injury is characterized by overlapping pubic symphysis disruption, the pubic bone on one side entrapped behind or very rarely anterior to the contra lateral pubic rami. [1][2][3][4][5][6][7][8][9] Only a very small proportion of pelvic trauma resulting from lateral compression injuries end up as locked pubic symphysis injuries. 1 A locked pubic symphysis is quiet rare injury and even more when associated with acetabular fracture.…”

Functional Outcome of Unstable Pelvic Fractures Treated in a Level III Hospital in a Developing Country: A 10-Year Prospective Observational Study

“…Management of unstable pelvic fractures still remains one of the major challenges in orthopaedic practice in limited resource communities where the burden of injury is on the rise [4,5]. Most patients present with severe associated injuries that are di cult to treat with the diagnostic and therapeutic means available in the local facilities [6].…”