CASE REPORT: AVULSION FRACTURE OF THE PELVIS AND HIP IN THE ADOLESCENT ATHLETE

Abstract

Avulsion fractures of the apophyses of the pelvis are common in adolescent athletes. They usually occur as a result of trauma or overuse, involving especially the anterior inferior iliac spine, anterior superior iliac spine, anterior third of the iliac crest, tuber ischiadicum, and symphysis pubis. The majority of these injuries occur during vigorous sports, with a male preponderance. They are often mistaken for muscle or tendon injuries. History, physical examination, and radiological modalities are often helpful in the diagnosis. Treatment may vary depending on the localization of the injury and the extent of fragment dislocation; but mainly remains conservative including bed rest, medications and rehabilitation. Some patients may require surgical treatment. In this study, a 14-year-old adolescent male athlete complaining with right hip pain, which has started after kicking ball in a football game, the previous day, is reported. A plain AP radiograph revealed a bone fragment displaced inferiorly about 1 cm from the right anterior inferior iliac spine. The patient was treated conservatively with analgesics and limited weight bearing. Four weeks later, range of motion was restored, mobilization allowed without crutch, and at ten weeks he could attend competitive sport activity.