Article Details

Apophyseal avulsion fractures of the pelvis, though relatively uncommon, are notable injuries among young athletes. These fractures typically occur during sports that involve sudden, explosive movements, such as soccer, football, volleyball, and other high intensity activities that impose rapid, intense strain on the apophyses. The anterior inferior iliac spine (AIIS) is the most frequent site of these fractures, which are predominantly seen in male athletes. We present the case of a 14-year-old male volleyball player who, six months after sustaining a non-contact injury to the hip, was referred to the sports clinic for a second opinion. Initial evaluation identified a suspicious lesion in the AIIS, raising concerns for a potential bone tumor. Despite six months of non-operative management, the patient continued to experience symptoms of hip impingement and persistent pain during sporting activities. Therefore, an operative approach was planned and the patient underwent surgical excision of the osseous mass along with tenodesis of the proximal rectus femoris tendon origin. These injuries may resemble hip impingement, bone tumors and muscle or tendon injuries which is why accurate diagnosis of AIIS avulsion fractures are critical to avoid misdiagnosis, unnecessary interventions and provide an appropriate management plan to ensure the best outcomes for adolescent athletes.

Keywords: Anterior inferior iliac spine; Avulsion fracture; Bone tumor; Hip impingement; Athletic injury; Hypertrophic non-union