Implant augmentation in pelvic surgery. Options and technique

• Published in: Der Unfallchirurg Vol. 118; no. 10; pp. 831 - 837
• Main Authors: Grüneweller, N, Wähnert, D, Raschke, M J, Fuchs, T
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: German
• Published: Germany 01.10.2015
• Subjects: Bone Cements - therapeutic use; Cementoplasty - instrumentation; Cementoplasty - methods; Combined Modality Therapy - instrumentation; Combined Modality Therapy - methods; Evidence-Based Medicine; Fracture Fixation, Internal - instrumentation; Fracture Fixation, Internal - methods; Fractures, Bone - therapy; Humans; Pelvic Bones - injuries; Pelvic Bones - surgery; Treatment Outcome; Augmentation; Osteoporosis; Pelvic fracture; Implant; PMMA
• ISSN: 1433-044X
• DOI: 10.1007/s00113-015-0058-z

Osteoporotic fractures of the pelvis are an increasing problem in trauma surgery. Sufficient implant anchorage is reduced due to the poor bone stock; however, early mobilization is especially necessary for geriatric patients in order to prevent additional complications. Implant augmentation may be one technique to increase implant anchorage and stability in osteoporotic bone. This procedure is currently used in the treatment of osteoporotic fractures of the dorsal pelvic ring. Beside the augmentation of iliosacral screws in the treatment of sacral insufficiency fractures, cement augmentation with lumbar or sacral pedicle screws is used for increased stability. Implant augmentation in pelvic surgery should be indicated crucially due to the specific risks of the procedure. Cement leakage and heat generation during cement curing (when PMMA--polymethylmetacrylate--cement is used) can compromise neurovascular structures. Potential complications like cement embolism are possible. The use of special implants (cannulated and perforated screws) as well as intraoperative navigation and 3D imaging increase patient safety and help to make implant augmentation a low risk procedure.