Fragility Fractures of the Pelvic Ring: Analysis of Epidemiology, Treatment Concepts, and Surgical Strategies from the Registry of the German Pelvic Multicenter Study Group

Abstract

Background: Fragility fractures of the pelvic ring (FFPs) represent a fast-growing entity in geriatric traumatology with increasing incidence worldwide. This study aimed to analyze the epidemiology, treatment concepts, and surgical strategies for FFPs based on data collected by the German Pelvic Multicenter Study Group documented in the German Pelvic Fracture Registry. It is the largest cohort study of its kind. Methods: This retrospective cohort study included patients aged 65 years or older after FFPs, as classified according to the Rommens and Hofmann classification. Data were collected from July 2018 onward and analyzed for demographics; fracture classifications; treatment modalities (operative vs. non-operative); and details of surgery, including timing and choice of implants. Patients after high-energy trauma were excluded. Statistical analyses included descriptive metrics and subgroup comparisons. Results: Among 1242 patients (84% female; median age 83.4 years), FFP Type II was the most common fracture type (50.8%), followed by Type IV (21.1%). Non-operative management was employed in 68.8% of cases, while 30.9% underwent surgery. Surgical intervention was more frequent in higher-grade FFPs (e.g., 72.1% in Type IV). The most common surgical technique for the posterior pelvic ring was percutaneous screw fixation (61.3%), with navigation used in 47.4% of cases. Conclusions: This study highlights the variability in treatment strategies for FFPs, with conservative management predominating in lower-grade fractures and surgical approaches increasingly utilized for more complex cases. The findings underscore the need for standardized, evidence-based guidelines and further research to optimize treatment and long-term outcomes for geriatric patients with FFPs.