What are the indications for external stabilization in pelvic fracture?

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External stabilization is used as a temporary, hemorrhage-control measure when a pelvic fracture is suspected in a patient who is hemodynamically unstable or has significant pelvic pain. The pelvic binder compresses the pelvic ring, helping reduce pelvic volume and tamponade venous bleeding, which can buy crucial time for resuscitation and definitive control of hemorrhage. After applying the binder, imaging is pursued to define the injury and guide next steps, such as angiographic embolization or pelvic packing if bleeding persists. This approach is not for every pelvic fracture—stability matters, so not all patients require external stabilization, and open wounds alone do not mandate it.