Clinical Outcome of a Precontoured Symphysis Pubis Plate with Tension Band Wiring for Traumatic Symphysis Pubis Rupture in Pelvic Fractures

Abstract

PURPOSE: The optimal method of fixation of symphysis pubis (SP) diastasis in pelvic ring injuries is still controversial. In this study, we investigated the radiological and the clinical results of a precontoured 4.5-mm symphysis pubis (SP) plate with tension band wiring (TBW) after an anterior pelvic injury in pelvic fractures. METHODS: We treated 25 patients with traumatic SP diastasis by open reduction and internal fixation with plates and wires. We used a four-hole 4.5-mm precontoured SP plate with a tension band wiring. RESULTS: Patients with a SP with TBW fixation achieved excellent or good results at final follow-up. Post-operative complications included two (8%) patients with metal work movement. The mean symphyseal width was smaller in 4.5 mm SP plate with TBW during 1-year follow up period. CONCLUSION: A precontoured symphysis pubis plate (4.5 mm) with figure-of-eight fashion tension band wiring shows favorable radiological results, excellent or good clinical outcome, and a lower complication (hardware failure and revision surgery).