The
bones and soft tissues of the pelvis should be studied in this view. Fractures and
dislocations occurring in the pelvic bones are particularly important in
relation to their effects on the pelvic contents. As with any fixed bony ring,
fractures and dislocations must be checked to make sure there is no further
breach of the ring, as commonly occurs. Ramus fractures of the obturator ring
are often multiple because of this. Look for dislocation of the femoral head in
relation to the acetabular fossa and check the relationship of the sacro-iliac joint. If
there is suspected instability of the pubic symphysis, as occurs in
professional sportsmen, particularly footballers, then films should be taken
with the patient standing on one leg and then the other to see if there is any
movement of the joint.
