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UNCONTROLLED WHEN PRINTED
Indications
  • Haemodynamically compromised trauma patients meeting the pelvic binder decision tool criteria
  • Should be considered an immediate and urgent intervention in symptomatic cases

Pelvic Binder Decision Tool

Contraindications
  • Patients under 23kg
  • Isolated hip fractures
  • Fall from standing
Patient Factors & Considerations
  • Elevate male genitalia out of the groin area to prevent compression injury.
  • For use on adults and children >23kg (7-8 years of age).
  • Pregnant patients; be vigilant to ensure correct placement (i.e. not inadvertently placed too high)
  • Not for use on any other fractures.
  • Approximately 40% of all pelvic binders are misplaced, often too high
Procedure
  • All relevant infection control methods to be utilised.
  • Prepare equipment required:
    • T-POD®
    • Extrication board/scoop stretcher
    • Trauma shears
  • Explain the procedure to the patient if possible
  • Consider appropriate analgesia if there is time - the T-POD may offer pain reduction
  • Position patient supine
  • MUST be applied direct to skin (or nothing more than light underwear)
  • Slide the fabric belt under the patient legs and position accordingly
  • The centreline of the binder must be at the level of the greater trochanters and symphysis pubis(2), NOT at the level of the iliac crests.
  • Cut the T-POD to create a 15-20cm central gap (3)(4)
  • Apply the pulley system to each side of the T-POD with the velcro
  • Use the pull tab on the pulley system and slowly apply tension until snug and anatomical alignment normalises(5)
  • Do NOT over-tension - the edges should not meet (5)
  • Secure the pulley string around tabs and secure with velcro(5)
  • Ensure that two fingers can fit between the device and the patient and a gap remain
  • Record time of application if possible(6)

tpod1

TPOD drawing position

TPOD 1b

TPOD 1

TPOD 2

TPOD 4

Success
  • Place patient onto scoop/extrication board as necessary
  • Monitor as necessary
Discontinue
Discontinue
Additional Information

Images are for demonstration purposes only.

References

J Orthop Trauma. 2013 May;27(5):262-6. doi: 10.1097/BOT.0b013e31826913d6. Does application position of the T-POD affect stability of pelvic fractures?

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Directorate
Clinical Services
Responsible Manager
Head of Clinical Services
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