• DOI:10.3928/01477447-20160307-02
• Corpus ID: 34895521

Management of Postpartum Diastasis of the Pubic Symphysis.

@article{Erickson2016ManagementOP,
  title={Management of Postpartum Diastasis of the Pubic Symphysis.},
  author={D Erickson and Jeffrey Low and Joseph B. Shumway},
  journal={Orthopedics},
  year={2016},
  volume={39 2},
  pages={
          e367-9
        }
}

• D. Erickson, J. Low, J. Shumway
• Published 31 March 2016
• Medicine
• Orthopedics

Conservative management is typically recommended for postpartum diastasis of the pubic symphysis, despite significant functional disability and chronic pain associated with this condition. With a reported incidence of 1:500, the authors describe diagnosis and management controversies with an additional review of relevant literature related to the management of this orthopedic condition. The case is of a 27-year-old woman diagnosed with 5.5-cm diastasis of the pubic symphysis after spontaneous vaginal delivery of a 5 lb 5 oz infant. She underwent early orthopedic surgical correction via open reduction and internal fixation. The patient achieved pain-free ambulation within 3 months of surgery, and returned to full activity at 6 months. Postpartum diastasis of the pubic symphysis is typically treated conservatively; however, the authors illustrate that early orthopedic consultation and intervention at diastasis greater than 5 cm may improve recovery and functional outcome.