Operative treatment of avulsion fractures of the anterior inferior iliac spine: A two-case report

Abstract

Avulsion fractures of the anterior inferior iliac spine (AIIS) are rare injuries of the pelvic ring. In two male athletes this injury was missed during initial examination and therefore was not treated optimally. Six months after the initial injury, the patients felt constant pain, and there was a lump in the thigh region; they both also had limited range of hip motion. Therefore, radiography and magnetic resonance imaging of the hip were performed. Avulsion fracture of AIIS was diagnosed and treated surgically with excision of the avulsed fragment. Two years later, both athletes have completely recovered and returned to their usual sporting activities. Isokinetic muscle testing disclosed that the extensor muscles of the operated side of the knee were weaker than those on the uninjured side. © Springer-Verlag Italia 2005.