Performed by Dr. Venkat Ram Thyalapalli at Dr Venkatram Thyalapalli
Pelvic fracture fixation is a surgery to realign and stabilise broken bones in the pelvis. The surgeon uses metal plates, screws, rods or an external frame to hold the fractured pieces in the correct position while the bone heals. Dr Venkatram Thyalapalli performs this procedure for children and adolescents who have sustained pelvic fractures that cannot heal properly with rest alone.
We believe in honest, upfront disclosure so you can make an informed decision.
A step-by-step look at what happens during this procedure.
The child is given general anaesthesia to ensure they are asleep and pain-free. They are positioned on the operating table to allow access to the pelvis.
The surgeon makes one or more incisions over the pelvis to reach the fractured bones. The exact location depends on the fracture pattern.
The broken pieces of pelvic bone are carefully repositioned into their normal alignment under direct vision or with imaging guidance.
Metal plates, screws, rods or pins are inserted to hold the bone fragments in place. In some cases an external frame attached to pins in the bone is used instead.
Once the fixation is secure, the incisions are closed with sutures or staples and a sterile dressing is applied. The child is moved to recovery.
A structured, patient-first approach from first consultation to full recovery.
Dr Venkatram Thyalapalli reviews imaging studies and examines the child to understand the fracture pattern and plan the safest fixation method.
He carefully realigns the pelvic bones and applies appropriate fixation devices, taking care to protect nearby nerves, blood vessels and organs.
After surgery, the child is monitored closely for pain control, wound healing and any signs of complications during the hospital stay.
Dr Venkatram Thyalapalli provides instructions on weight-bearing restrictions, physiotherapy and follow-up visits to support bone healing and functional recovery.
What to expect at each stage of your recovery journey.
Pain, swelling and limited mobility are common in the first few weeks. Weight-bearing restrictions are usually in place and the child may need a wheelchair or crutches. Wound care and pain management are priorities.
Over the next two to three months, the pelvic bones begin to heal and strengthen. Physiotherapy helps restore movement and muscle strength. Weight-bearing is gradually increased as healing progresses.
Most children can return to normal activities after three to six months, though contact sports may require longer clearance. Follow-up X-rays confirm bone healing. Individual recovery times vary.
The procedure aims to realign the pelvis and allow the bones to heal in a stable position, supporting weight-bearing and movement.
Proper fixation may help reduce the risk of chronic pain, limb length discrepancy or abnormal gait that can result from poorly healed pelvic fractures.
In cases with severe soft tissue damage, nerve injury or involvement of the growth plates, some children may experience ongoing stiffness, leg length difference or altered pelvic shape despite surgery.
In some cases, the metal plates or screws may need to be removed in a later operation if they cause irritation or interfere with growth.
The right choice depends on your diagnosis, risks and circumstances — discussed with you at your consultation.
Stable, minimally displaced pelvic fractures in children may be managed with bed rest, pain control and gradual mobilisation without surgery. This is considered when the fracture pattern allows natural healing.
In some unstable fractures or when internal surgery poses high risks, an external frame alone may be applied. This can stabilise the pelvis temporarily or definitively, depending on the injury.
Skeletal traction may be used as a temporary measure to hold the pelvis in alignment before definitive fixation or as the sole treatment in select cases. The choice depends on the fracture type and the child's overall condition.
Let's clear up some of the most common myths about pelvic fracture fixation.
Get a personalised assessment from an experienced specialist. Understand your options, ask your questions, and decide with confidence.
Consult Venkat Ram Thyalapalli for Pelvic Fracture Fixation at any of these 2 centres — pick the one nearest you.
