Pelvic Fractures

Any fracture or break in the pelvic bones is referred to as a pelvic fracture. They are most commonly seen in dogs or cats who have been hit by a vehicle. They can manifest as tearing of the Sacroiliac joint; this is where the wing of the ilium is torn away from the sacrum (a Sacroiliac dislocation), or as an ilium or ischium fracture (the wings of the pelvis). This may or may not include damage to the acetabulum (the socket the femur sits within).

Treatment varies greatly from case to case. Some pets will simply need cage rest or limited activity. When the Sacroiliac joint dislocates, a screw (or screws) inserted through the ilium sacrum can be used to secure the bones. These aren't typically lengthy procedures, though a combination of bone plates and screws may be required if multiple fractures need to be treated. In these cases, the surgery will take much longer.