External fixation of double vertical pelvic fractures with a trapezoid compression frame.

Seventeen patients with double vertical fractures of the pelvic girdle were treated by early reduction and subsequent fixation of the pelvic ring with a trapezoid frame. This provided firm fixation of the fractured pelvis. With the frame attached, patients without associated injuries were allowed out of bed within 3 weeks and in every case the frame was removed 6 weeks after its application. External fixation of the pelvic fracture afforded relief from pain and greatly facilitated nursing. At follow-up, all the fractures had united in the position secured initially by the frame and no patient complained of pain in the sacro-iliac joints.