Pelvic fracture-specific scales versus general patient reported scales for pelvic fracture outcomes: a systematic review

BACKGROUND: Multiple scoring systems are used in the assessment of post-injury outcomes in pelvic fracture patients. Although commonly used, there is scarce evidence as to their validity.

METHODS: We performed a systematic review of the current literature to compare a well validated generic outcome tool (Short Form-36 (SF-36)) and three commonly used pelvic-specific outcome tools, the Iowa Pelvic Score, Majeed Pelvic Score and Orlando Pelvic Score.

RESULTS: Eleven papers were found that used both the SF-36 and one or more of the pelvic-specific outcome tools. The data demonstrate great variability in both the method of application and form of reporting.

CONCLUSION: The pelvic-specific tools produce similar results to the SF-36 and are potentially more sensitive in examining specific areas related to pelvic injuries and easier to perform and calculate than the SF-36.