Posterior pelvic disruptions managed by the use of the Double Cobra Plate.

From five years of experience with 30 patients on whom the Double Cobra plate technique was employed for reconstruction of a variety of acute and late posterior pelvic injuries, this method appears to be highly suitable for effective stabilization of both sacral fractures and bilateral sacroiliac dislocations. With late presentations and larger individuals, associated anterior reconstruction of the pelvic ring is strongly recommended. The surgical complications have been sufficiently uncommon to recommend more widespread application of the protocol. Nevertheless, the potential for major complications, including life-threatening problems associated with pelvic reconstruction, should not be underestimated. These surgical techniques of internal fixation are potentially formidable undertakings that should be limited to those surgeons who possess appropriate training, instrumentation, and experience.