Pelvic Fractures in Pregnancy: Multidisciplinary Management and Outcomes

TL;DR

Pelvic fractures during pregnancy require a multidisciplinary approach to manage risks and improve outcomes for both mother and child.

Contribution

The paper emphasizes the role of advanced imaging and surgical techniques in improving maternal survival rates.

Findings

Multidisciplinary care improves maternal survival rates to 95%.

Low-dose CT scans and MRIs enhance diagnostic accuracy with minimal fetal radiation exposure.

Resource limitations and ethical considerations affect outcomes and management strategies.

Abstract

Pelvic fractures during pregnancy, though rare, pose significant risks to maternal and fetal health, necessitating a multidisciplinary approach to management. These injuries are predominantly caused by high-energy trauma, such as motor vehicle accidents, and are associated with a high incidence of complications, including maternal hemorrhage, placental abruption, and preterm labor. Advances in diagnostic imaging, such as low-dose CT scans and MRIs, have improved diagnostic accuracy while minimizing fetal exposure to radiation. Similarly, biomechanically tailored surgical interventions and innovative treatment strategies, including minimally invasive fixation techniques, have enhanced maternal survival rates, reaching 95% when multidisciplinary care is implemented. Despite these advancements, challenges persist, particularly in resource-limited settings where disparities in access to care result in poorer outcomes. Ethical and medico-legal considerations further complicate management, emphasizing the importance of informed consent and balancing maternal autonomy with fetal well-being. This review highlights the critical role of public health initiatives, such as trauma prevention campaigns, and the need for innovation in diagnostics, therapeutics, and long-term care. Future research should prioritize addressing gaps in our understanding of long-term maternal and neonatal outcomes, particularly regarding reproductive health and quality of life. By integrating advanced technologies, fostering collaboration, and improving global access to care, clinicians can achieve optimal outcomes for both mother and child.