Orthopedics
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Elevated body mass index has been identified as a potential risk factor for complications in operatively treated pelvic trauma. Although obesity is an independent risk factor for morbidity and mortality following high-energy blunt force trauma, there is little information on the immediate complications following isolated pelvic and acetabular fractures in obese patients with trauma. The authors hypothesized that obesity (body mass index ≥30 kg/m(2)) is a risk factor for complications in both operative and nonoperative pelvic and acetabular fractures. ⋯ Obesity is associated with increasing complications following operative fixation of pelvic and acetabular fractures. However, it is important to recognize that even nonoperative management of pelvic and acetabular fractures in obese patients can have early complications. This study showed a significant obesity-related risk of complications after trauma in both operative and nonoperative pelvic injuries.