Arterial vascularization of the bony acetabulum

Abstract

The arterial supply of the acetabulum is studied in 30 human hip-pelvis specimens utilizing conventional angiography, 3 D-CT and maceration. 3 specimens out of 30 had to be excluded due to extravasation and incomplete filling. The arteries of the pelvis were filled with barium sulfate in 16 cases and in 11 cases with a solution of resin and lead powder. Conventional angiograms were performed in all specimens. In preparations with resin/lead powder additional CT with 3 D reconstructions of the surface of the acetabulum and arteries were done. 3 D-CTs show precise relationship of the arteries to the acetabulum. Filling with resin and lead powder is optimal for anatomical studies. It permits comparative 3 D-CT and conventional X-ray examination and subsequent preparation of the vessels in corrosion technique. The central parts of the acetabulum are vascularized by the obturator artery, the cranio-lateral part by the a. glutea superior and the ischial parts by the a. glutea inferior. The arterial supply of the acetabulum can be saved knowing the way and entry of the arteries into the bone. This is of importance for triple osteotomies of the pelvis but as well for difficult total hip replacements and revisions. The described method can be used for anatomical studies of the vessel to bone correlation in different anatomical sites.