Intra-operative imaging technique to aid safe placement of screws in percutaneous fixation of pelvic and acetabular fractures

Percutaneous internal fixation of pelvic fractures is becoming increasingly more popular among trauma surgeons worldwide due to reduced surgical related morbidity and facilitation of early mobilisation. Visualisation of the pelvic bony anatomy during percutaneous fixation is difficult, making the procedure technically demanding. We present a simple and easy intra-operative imaging technique that helps to confirm safe positioning of screws, particularly in the narrow anterior acetabular column, by use of radiopaque contrast medium to define the appropriately drilled track.