Pelvic fracture is a common medical condition which affects the pelvic region of the body. In phonetic transcription, the word "pelvic fracture" is spelled as /ˈpɛlvɪk ˈfræktʃər/. The first syllable is pronounced as "pelv", with the "e" being pronounced as "e" in "pet". The second syllable is pronounced as "ik", with the "i" being pronounced as "i" in "it". The last syllable is pronounced as "frak-chur", with the "a" being pronounced as "a" in "cat". The word "pelvic" refers to the pelvis, which is the lower part of the trunk.
A pelvic fracture is a medical condition characterized by the breaking or cracking of one or multiple bones within the pelvic area. The pelvic region comprises the bones that form the bowl-like structure connecting the spine to the lower limbs, including the hip bones (ilium, ischium, and pubis) and the sacrum. A pelvic fracture generally occurs due to a significant force or trauma, such as a high-velocity impact from a motor vehicle accident, a fall from a great height, or a sports-related injury.
The severity of a pelvic fracture can vary, ranging from minor cracks or hairline fractures to more severe breaks that completely separate the bones. The symptoms of pelvic fractures may include intense pain in the pelvic area, difficulty or inability to walk or bear weight, swelling, tenderness, bruising, and in severe cases, a visible deformity or displacement of the bones.
Diagnosis of a pelvic fracture typically involves a thorough physical examination, including assessing for tenderness and deformity, along with imaging tests such as X-rays, CT scans, or MRI scans. Treatment options depend on several factors, including the type and extent of the fracture, the stability of the pelvic bones, and the presence of any associated injuries. Treatments may include pain management, rest, immobilization with the use of a brace or cast, surgical intervention to stabilize the bones with screws, plates, or rods, and rehabilitation or physical therapy to restore strength and mobility to the affected area.
Recovery from a pelvic fracture can be a slow and gradual process, often requiring a multidisciplinary approach involving orthopedic surgeons, physical therapists, pain management specialists, and other healthcare professionals to ensure the best possible outcome.
The word "pelvic" is derived from the Latin word "pelvis", which means "basin" or "bucket". It refers to the bony structure located at the base of the spine that connects the lower limbs with the axial skeleton.
The term "fracture" is derived from the Latin word "fractura", which means "a breaking" or "a fracture". It is used medically to describe a break or crack in a bone.
Therefore, "pelvic fracture" refers to a fracture or break in one or more of the bones that make up the pelvis.