Transcondylar traction as a closed reduction technique in vertically unstable pelvic ring disruption

Little information is provided in the literature describing an efficient reduction technique for pelvic ring disruption. The aim of this study is to assess the use of the transcondylar traction as a closed reduction technique for vertically unstable fracture-dislocations of the sacro-iliac joint. Twenty-four pelvic ring disruptions were treated with attempted closed reduction followed by percutaneous screw fixation. Transcondylar traction was used as a closed reduction technique. Closed reduction to within 1 cm of residual displacement was obtained in all cases. No incidence of infection, digestive, cutaneous, or vascular complications occurred. We observed secondary displacement in three patients. Correction of the vertical displacement is better achieved when performed within 8 days after the trauma. Two posterior screws and a complementary anterior fixation is typically required to avoid further displacement in case of sacral fractures. However, an open approach should be preferred in both cases of crescent iliac fracture-sacroiliac dislocation and transforaminal fracture associated with peripheral neurological deficit. A vertical sacral fracture should make the surgeon more wary of fixation failure and loss of reduction.