A Serious Fall or Car Accident Can Lead to a Pelvic Fracture

A pelvic fracture is a painful injury that affects thousands of people every year. A broken pelvis is usually associated with the elderly, but someone at any age can suffer from this injury. Some of the most substantial pelvic fractures are caused by high-energy forces, such as a car accident, truck accident, bicycle accident or fall.

Internal bleeding has been associated with pelvic fractures, as this bony structure cradles so many organs. Because internal bleeding is invisible to the eye, it is crucial that an accident victim be treated immediately. A pelvic fracture can be life threatening and surgery is sometimes required.

A broken pelvis is painful and may be swollen or bruised. When a pelvic fracture is caused by a high-energy injury, there is usually considerable bleeding, which can cause the victim to go into shock and may cause death. Also, this kind of injury is often accompanied with injuries to the chest, head, abdomen and legs.

Doctors use the results from X-rays to diagnose pelvic fractures. They can identify from an x-ray, the degree in which the bones are out of place. Sometimes a CT scan is ordered to determine the extent of the pelvic injury.

In the case of a pelvic fracture caused by an auto accident or fall, the doctor may need to use an external fixator to stabilize the pelvic region. This device allows surgeons to treat the internal injuries to organs, blood vessels and nerves. Once the pelvis has been stabilized, it can be surgically put back together.

The prognosis for a broken pelvis depends on what caused the fracture. If it was caused by a traumatic accident, there may be substantial complications, such as extensive bleeding, damage to the organs and infection. The accident victim may experience nerve damage that can lead to pain and impaired mobility.

If you have sustained a broken pelvis from a car accident or fall, you need to contact an injury attorney in St. Petersburg. Contact the Law Offices of William K. Saron, P.A. today at (727) 345-5075 or (866) 836-4947 for a free legal consultation.