'Verto-sign': an indicator of increased operative complexity in pelvic trauma surgery

Ann R Coll Surg Engl. 2010 Oct 15. doi: 10.1308/147870810X12822015504725. Online ahead of print.

Abstract

We demonstrate an important, newly defined, radiographic sign present in three acetabular trauma cases, named the 'Verto-sign' which, if present, indicates a particularly complex both column fracture pattern. The 'Verto-sign' is visible on the anteroposterior pelvic radiograph in a rare subtype of both column fractures and is created by the greater sciatic notch fracture fragment rotating internally or externally. The 'Verto-sign' appears, as its name suggests, like a V-shape present above the acetabulum.