Pubic symphysis disruption

Case contributed by Andrew Murphy
Diagnosis certain

Presentation

Quad bike accident

Patient Data

Age: 65 years
Gender: Female

Initial imaging

x-ray

Diastasis of the pubic symphysis, fractures of the superior and inferior pubic rami bilaterally.

Follow up flamigo views

x-ray

There is disruption of the pubic symphysis, with a notably wide diastasis seen between the individual flamingo views consistent with significant disruption of the ligamentous structures of the symphysis, which widens to a distance of 24 mm on the left foot up view. 

Post operative imaging

x-ray

Screw plate fixation seen to the bilateral superior pubic rami.

Case Discussion

The 'flamingo view' although seldom utilized, is a specialized orthopedic projection of the pelvis to screen for instability of the pubic symphysis.

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