In the Young-Burgess classification, a Vertical Shear (VS) pelvic ring injury is best defined as:
- A Symphyseal diastasis with anterior SI joint opening and intact posterior tension band
- B Complete disruption of the posterior arch with cephalad displacement of one hemipelvis, usually after an axial load from a fall from height ✓
- C Internal rotation of one hemipelvis with an anterior sacral alar compression fracture
- D Unilateral lateral compression injury combined with contralateral external rotation, called the windswept pelvis
Correct answer: B. Complete disruption of the posterior arch with cephalad displacement of one hemipelvis, usually after an axial load from a fall from height
Explanation
Vertical shear results from axial loading, classically a fall from height onto an outstretched leg, producing complete posterior arch failure with superior migration of the hemipelvis. It is mechanically equivalent to a Tile Type C injury with rotational and vertical instability. Option A describes APC-I, option C describes LC-I, and option D is the windswept pelvis of LC-III.
Reference: Rockwood and Green's Fractures in Adults, 9th ed.
High-yield for: NEET PGINI-CETNExTFMGEUSMLEPLABMRCP
Written and medically reviewed by the StethoPrep medical team.