Posterior Wall Acetabular Fractures Research Articles

Surgeon Accuracy in Prediction of Stability of Posterior Wall Acetabular Fractures.

This study aims to investigate surgeon accuracy in prediction of the stability of posterior wall acetabular fractures by comparing "examination under anesthesia" (EUA) findings to submitted estimations on the basis of radiograph and computed tomography (CT) imaging across a range of experience in Orthopaedic surgeons and trainees. Records of patients who underwent EUA after presenting with posterior wall acetabular fractures at 2 different institutions were pooled for data collection, totaling 50 cases. Radiographs, CT images, and information regarding the presence of a hip dislocation requiring procedural reduction were provided to participants for review. A survey was generated for submission of impressions of stability for each individual case and disseminated amongst Orthopaedic trainees and surgeons in practice. The submissions of 11 respondents were analyzed. Mean accuracy was calculated to be 0.70 (SD 0.07). Sensitivity and specificity of respondents were 0.68 (SD 0.11) and 0.71 (SD 0.12) respectively. Positive predictive value and negative predictive value for respondents were 0.56 (SD 0.09) and 0.82 (SD 0.04) respectively. There was poor correlation of accuracy with years of experience with R2 calculated to be .0004 and poor agreement between observers with Kappa measurement of interobserver reliability of 0.46. In conclusion, our study suggests that surgeons are unable to consistently differentiate between stable and unstable patterns on the basis of X-Ray and CT based assessments. Years of experience in training/practice was not found to be associated with improved accuracy of stability prediction.

Heterotopic Ossification Remodeling After Acetabular Surgery: A Natural History Case Report.

A 30-year-old woman presented with a transverse plus posterior wall acetabular fracture and underwent operative fixation through a Kocher-Langenbeck approach. Shared decision was made for no heterotopic ossification (HO) prophylaxis. The patient developed symptomatic HO and was scheduled for resection, which was delayed because of the pandemic. She returned with interval remodeling of HO and symptom resolution. No surgery was required. HO is a common complication after acetabular injury. Resection is the treatment of choice for symptomatic HO. We are not aware of other reports of spontaneous remodeling of symptomatic HO such that it no longer required surgery.

Transverse posterior wall acetabular fracture pattern is associated with increased risk of periprosthetic joint infection after conversion total hip arthroplasty

IntroductionAcetabular fracture subtypes are associated with varying rates of subsequent conversion total hip arthroplasty (THA) after open reduction internal fixation (ORIF) with transverse posterior wall (TPW) patterns having a higher risk for early conversion. Conversion THA is fraught with complications including increased rates of revision and periprosthetic joint infections (PJI). We aimed to determine if TPW pattern is associated with higher rates of readmissions and complications including PJI after conversion compared to other subtypes. MethodsWe retrospectively reviewed 1,938 acetabular fractures treated with ORIF at our institution from 2005 to 2019, of which 170 underwent conversion that met inclusion criteria, including 80 TPW fracture pattern. Conversion THA outcomes were compared by initial fracture pattern. There was no difference between the TPW and other fracture patterns in age, BMI, comorbidities, surgical variables, length of stay, ICU stay, discharge disposition, or hospital acquired complications related to their initial ORIF procedure. Multivariable analysis was performed to identify independent risk factors for PJI at both 90-days and 1-year after conversion. ResultsTPW fracture had higher risk of PJI after conversion THA at 1-year (16.3% vs 5.6%, p = 0.027). Multivariable analysis revealed TPW independently carried increased risk of 90-day (OR 4.89; 95% CI 1.16–20.52; p = 0.03) and 1-year PJI (OR 6.51; 95% CI 1.56–27.16; p = 0.01) compared to the other acetabular fracture patterns. There was no difference between the fracture cohorts in 90-day or 1-year mechanical complications including dislocation, periprosthetic fracture and revision THA for aseptic etiologies, or 90-day all-cause readmission after the conversion procedure. ConclusionAlthough conversion THA after acetabular ORIF carry high rates of PJI overall, TPW fractures are associated with increased risk for PJI after conversion compared to other fracture patterns at 1-year follow-up. Novel management/treatment of these patients either at the time of ORIF and/or conversion THA procedure are needed to reduce PJI rates. Level of evidenceTherapeutic Level III (retrospective study of consecutive patients undergoing an intervention with analyses of outcomes).

Finite element analysis of posterior acetabular column plate and posterior acetabular wall prostheses in treating posterior acetabular fractures

BackgroundThe purpose of this study was to investigate the mechanical stability of the posterior acetabular column plate and different posterior acetabular wall prostheses used in treating posterior acetabular fractures with or without comminution.MethodsThe unilateral normal ilium was reconstructed, and a model of posterior acetabular wall fracture was established on this basis. The fracture fragment accounted for approximately 40% of the posterior acetabular wall. The posterior acetabular column plate and different posterior acetabular wall prostheses were also designed. Using static and dynamic analysis methods, we observed and compared the changes in the stress and displacement values of different models at different hip joint flexion angles under external forces.ResultsAt different hip flexion angles, the stress of each model mainly fluctuated between 37.98 MPa and 1129.00 MPa, and the displacement mainly fluctuated between 0.076 and 6.955 mm. In the dynamic analysis, the nodal stress‒time curves of the models were nonlinear, and the stress changed sharply during the action time. Most of the nodal displacement‒time curves of the models were relatively smooth, with no dramatic changes in displacement during the action time; additionally, most of the curves were relatively consistent in shape.ConclusionsFor simple posterior acetabular wall fractures, we recommend using a posterior acetabular column plate. In the case of comminuted posterior acetabular fractures, we recommend the use of a nonflanked posterior acetabular prosthesis or a biflanked posterior acetabular prosthesis. Regarding the method of acetabular prosthesis design, we propose the concept of “Break up to Make up” as a guide.

Spring Plates as a Valid Additional Fixation in Comminuted Posterior Wall Acetabular Fractures: A Retrospective Multicenter Study.

The posterior wall fracture is the most frequent pattern of acetabular fractures. Many techniques of fixation have been described in the literature and involve plates, screws, or a combination of both. This study aims to investigate the clinical and radiological outcomes of spring plates in the treatment of comminuted posterior wall acetabular fractures. (2) Methods: A retrospective multicenter (four level I trauma centers) observational study was performed. Patients with a comminuted posterior wall acetabular fracture treated with a spring plate (DePuy Synthes, West Chester, PA) were included. Diagnosis was made according to the Judet and Letournel classification. Diagnosis was confirmed with plain radiographs in an antero-posterior view and Judet views, iliac and obturator oblique views, and thin-slice CT with multiplanar reconstructions. (3) Results: Forty-six patients (34 males and 12 females) with a mean age of 51.7 years (range 19-73) were included. The most common mechanism of injury was motor vehicle accident (34 cases). In all cases, spring plates were placed under an overlapping reconstruction plate. The mean follow-up was 33.4 months (range 24-48). The mean period without weight-bearing was 4.9 weeks (range 4-7), and full weight-bearing was allowed at an average of 8.2 weeks (range 7-11) after surgery. (4) Conclusions: According to the present data, spring plates can be considered a viable additional fixation of the posterior wall acetabular fractures.

Arthroscopic Reduction and Internal Fixation in Patients with Acetabular Posterior Wall Fractures.

This study aimed to access the radiologic and clinical outcomes after arthroscopic reduction and internal fixation with screws in patients with posterior wall fractures of the acetabulum. From May 2013 to December 2019, 13 patients (11 men and 2 women) with posterior wall fractures of the acetabulum were treated with arthroscopic reduction and internal fixation with screws at two medical centers. The mean age at the index operation was 39 years (range, 22-58 years). The mean duration of follow-up was 23 months (range, 12-46 months). Clinical assessment was performed using the modified Merle d'Aubigné and Postel functional scoring system. The maximum displacement of acetabular or femoral head fragments detected on radiographs was used as radiographic results. Secondary osteoarthritis, osteonecrosis, or heterotrophic ossification was assessed at the latest follow-up. Bony union was shown at 12 weeks of follow-up in all patients. The radiologic outcomes showed an anatomical reduction in 11 patients and a satisfactory reduction in 2 patients. The modified Merle d'Aubigné and Postel functional score was excellent in 7 patients, good in 5 patients, and fair in 1 patient. Two patients had transient pudendal nerve palsy after hip arthroscopy. However, no sciatic nerve palsy occurred. At the latest follow-up, there was no heterotopic ossification, osteonecrosis of the femoral head, or posttraumatic osteoarthritis. Arthroscopic reduction and internal fixation with cannulated screws can be good alternative options with good radiographic and clinical outcomes, convenient removal of intra-articular loose body, and low complication rates.

A retrospective analysis of different treatments of posterior acetabular wall fracture

Introduction/Objective. The objective of the paper is an analysis of clinical outcomes of non-surgical conservative and operative management of patients with posterior acetabular wall fractures. Methods. We investigated 88 fractures of the acetabular joint, 31 of which were treated surgically and 57 non-surgically. Only screws or reconstruction plates and screws were used for surgical treatment and traction in patients who underwent nonsurgical treatment. The study period lasted at least three years. The measures used to assess the outcome of operative, surgical and non-operative, conservative approach were Merle d?Aubigne modified score, Harris hip score, and Matta?s radiometric criteria. Results. Matta?s evaluation criteria showed an excellent score of 40.4% in conservatively treated patients; 19.4% in patients who underwent surgery; a good score of 49.1% in conservatively treated patients; and 48.4% in patients who underwent surgery. Comparation between two patient groups differently treated, by Merle d?Aubigne tool, showed excellent results for 56.1% conservatively treated patients and 25.8% in those patients who underwent surgery, and good results in 29.8% conservatively treated patients and 38.7% in patients who underwent surgery. Harris hip score (excellent results were showed in 54.4% for non-operative-treated patients) also showed statistical significance, p < 0.005. Conclusion. Proper diagnostics and a proper definitive diagnosis can help avoid surgical treatment if the fracture cannot be treated surgically, making the postoperative period more comfortable for the patient.

髋臼后壁骨折内固定方式的选择

髋臼后壁骨折内固定方式的选择

A simple method for calculating acetabular posterior wall fracture fragment percentages on three-dimensional computed tomography scan reconstruction images

A simple method for calculating acetabular posterior wall fracture fragment percentages on three-dimensional computed tomography scan reconstruction images

Evaluation of the Results of Open Reduction and Internal Fixation of Posterior Wall and Posterior Column Fracture of Acetabulum by Reconstruction Plate and Screw by Kocher-Langenbeck Approach

Background: Historically, acetabular fracture therapy was generally insufficient, leaving many patients with incapacitating pain, mobility limitations, and joint failure. It's caused by high-velocity injuries and affects young, economically productive people. Proper treatment including optimum surgical care should be offered, especially in our uninformed and fiscally unstable society, to preserve lives and reduce long-term consequences and impairments. This research aims to examine and manage the posterior wall and column of acetabular fracture, focusing on aspects the treating physician may influence. Objectives: To assess the outcome of open reduction and internal fixation of posterior wall and column fracture of acetabulum which may help the orthopaedic surgeons to take appropriate measures as needed. Materials and Methods: 15 posterior acetabular fracture patients were studied. Cases were clinically and radiologically diagnosed in NITOR's emergency or outpatient departments (NITOR). All patients had open reduction and internal fixation by Kocher-Langenback technique. 1 hour 55 minutes was average operating time 21-day average hospital stay. Per- and post-op were uneventful. Patients were released with follow-up appointments. Patients were clinically and radiologically examined at each follow-up. Results: Most injuries were from RTAs (86.66 percent ). Most patients had left acetabular injuries (66.66 percent). Posterior wall acetabular fractures were more common (53.33%) than posterior column and wall fractures (33.33 percent). Most patients had surgery within 2 weeks after injury (60 percent ). 4 (26.66%) and 6 (40%) patients had good clinical and radiological outcomes following surgery. Most patients' clinical (46.66%) and radiological outcomes were favorable (53.33 percent). About 20% of patients were clinically and radiologically fair. 6.6% of patients had poor physical result, while none had poor radiological outcome. 20-40-year-olds had a largely ..........

Comparison of clinical efficacy of subchondral blocking technique combined with plate-screw biplanar fixation and simple plate-screw support peripheral block fixation in the treatment of complex posterior wall acetabular fracture

To investigate the clinical effect of subchondral blocking technique combined with plate and screw biplane fixation in the treatment of complex acetabular posterior wall fractures. From July 2015 to December 2019, a total of 47 cases of acetabular posterior wall fractures were treated. According to the different internal fixation techniques, they were divided into the external blocking fixation group supported by lateral plate and screw(control group of 23 cases) and the subchondral blocking technique combined with lateral plate and screw support biplane fixation group(study group of 24 cases). In the control group, there were 15 males and 8 females, aged 18 to 68 years old with an average of (40.9±7.2) years;preoperative preparation was 4 to 13 days with an average of (7.9±1.5) days. In the study group, there were 14 males and 10 females, aged 20 to 71 years old with an average of (41.7±7.9) years;preoperative preparation was 4 to 12 days with an average of (7.5±1.9) days. Kocher-Langenbeck approach was used in both groups and all patients were followed up for at least 1 year. The operation time, intraoperative blood loss, hospitalization time, quality of fracture reduction after operation, modified Merle D'Aubigne Postel score of hip joint one year after operation and postoperative complication rate of two groups were statistically analyzed and compared. The patients in both groups were followed up for at least 1 year. One year after operation, the Merled'Aubigne Postel score(16.042±1.517) of hip function improvement in the study group was significantly higher than that in the control group (14.696±1.222)(P<0.05). There was no significant difference in operation time and intraoperative bleeding between the two groups(P>0.05). One year after operation, there was a significant difference between two groups in the evaluation results of Matta fracture reduction quality(P<0.05). There was no significant difference in postoperative complications between two groups(P>0.05). The treatment of complex acetabular posterior wall fracture with subchondral blocking technique combined with plate and screw biplane fixation technique has lower postoperative complication rate, better functional recovery of hip joint and satisfactory clinical effect.

OUTCOMES OF EXTERNAL ROTATORS-SPARING APPROACH IN THE TREATMENT OF POSTERIOR WALL ACETABULAR FRACTURES: A RETROSPECTIVE STUDY

Posterior wall acetabular fractures are typically treated via a kocher-langenbeck approach.This approach can be associated with complications such as avascular necrosis of the femoral head,heterotopic ossification, sciatic neurapraxia and compromise of the hip muscle. In this study we assessedclinical and radiological outcomes of muscle-sparing posterior approach for the treatment of posteriorwall acetabular fractures.

One-stop computerized virtual planning system for the surgical management of posterior wall acetabular fractures

BackgroundPosterior wall acetabular fractures remain one of the most difficult fracture injuries to treat. Accurate assessment of fracture characteristics and appropriate preoperative surgical strategies are essential for excellent reduction. This paper evaluates the feasibility and effectiveness of a one-stop computerized virtual planning system for the surgical management of posterior wall acetabular fractures.Methods52 cases of posterior wall acetabular fractures treated surgically were selected in our department between January 2015 and December 2020 for retrospective analysis. 52 cases were classified into group A (25 patients) and group B (27 patients) according to whether computerized virtual planning procedures were performed preoperatively. In group A, virtual surgical simulation was conducted using a one-stop computerized planning system preoperatively. In group B, traditional surgery was employed. Reduction quality, surgical time, blood loss, hip function, complications, and instrumentation time were compared between the two groups.ResultsThe actual surgery for all patients in group A was essentially the same as the virtual surgery before the operation. Compared to group B, patients in group A had markedly shorter surgical time (−43 min), shorter instrumentation time (−20 min), and less intraoperative blood loss (−130 ml). However, no significant statistical difference was observed in reduction quality and hip function. The complication rate was slightly lower in group A (4/25) than in group B (7/27), without a significant difference.ConclusionThe one-stop computerized virtual planning system is a highly effective, user-friendly and educational tool for allowing the cost-efficient surgical simulation of posterior wall acetabular fractures and providing a more individualized therapeutic schedule. The one-stop computerized planning system is feasible to treat posterior wall acetabular fractures, which is an effective method than the conventional treatment of posterior wall acetabular fractures.Trial registration: retrospective registration.

Influence of associated femoral head fractures on surgical outcomes following osteosynthesis in posterior wall acetabular fractures

BackgroundTo date, no study has compared the surgical outcomes between posterior wall acetabular fractures with and without associated femoral head fractures. Therefore, we evaluated whether an associated femoral head fracture increases the incidence of fracture sequelae, including post-traumatic osteoarthritis (PTOA) and osteonecrosis of the femoral head (ONFH), following osteosynthesis for posterior wall acetabular fractures.MethodsThis retrospective clinical study enrolled 183 patients who underwent osteosynthesis for posterior wall acetabular fractures between 2009 and 2019 at a level-1 trauma center. The incidence of PTOA, ONFH, and conversion to total hip arthroplasty (THA) was reviewed.ResultsThe incidence of PTOA, ONFH, and conversion to THA following osteosynthesis were 20.2%, 15.9%, and 17.5%, respectively. The average time for conversion to THA was 18.76 ± 20.15 months (range, 1–82). The results for the comparison of patients with associated femoral head fractures and isolated posterior wall acetabular fractures were insignificant (PTOA: 27.3% vs. 15.7%, p = 0.13; ONFH: 18.2% vs. 14.3%, p = 0.58; conversion to THA: 20.4% vs. 15.7%, p = 0.52). Upon evaluating other variables, only marginal impaction negatively affected ONFH incidence (odds ratio: 2.90).ConclusionsOur methods failed to demonstrate a significant difference in the rate of PTOA, ONFH, or conversion to THA in posterior wall acetabular fractures with and without an associated femoral head fracture. Beyond femoral head fractures, the marginal impaction of the acetabulum could have led to early sequelae.Level of evidenceLevel III

Are screws enough? functional outcome in surgically treated posterior acetabular wall fracture using cannulated cancellous screws

Background: Posterior wall fractures of acetabulum are the commonest type of acetabular fractures 1,2. These fractures are usually associated with posterior dislocation of hip. Anatomical reduction and fixation are important to restore congruity and stability of joint, to decrease the risk of secondary arthritis and thus attain good functional outcome 3. Fixation modalities comprise of both recon plates in buttress mode, lag screw fixation or combination of both.In our study, we aimed to assess the functional outcome and complications following the use of only cannulated screws as fixation mo Material and methods: A total of 11 patients with a diagnosis of posterior acetabular wall fracture were treated with surgical fixation of posterior acetabular wall using only cannulated cancellous screws. The patients were followed up strictly for 6 weeks, 3 months, 6 months, as well as 1 year and thereafter at yearly intervals as long as possible. Functional and radiological assessment were done using Merle D’Aubigne and Postel grading system and Matta’s radiological criteria. Result:In our study, we noticed excellent outcome in 100% of the patients who had posterior wall fractures without hip dislocation.

Gunshot Wound to the Hip Resulting in a Femoral Head and Acetabulum Fracture Treated With Open Reduction and Internal Fixation and Bipolar Hemiarthroplasty

Combined fractures of the femoral head and acetabulum due to ballistic injuries are rare injuries, especially in the elderly. We present a case of a 70-year-old female who sustained a gunshot wound to the left hip, resulting in a comminuted femoral head fracture and posterior wall acetabular fracture. She was treated with open reduction and internal fixation of the acetabulum, as well as bipolar hemiarthroplasty for treatment of her femoral head fracture. At her 18-month follow-up visit, the patient was doing well and had no complaints.

Posterior wall fractures of the acetabulum: treatment using an anatomical plate through direct posterior approach.

This study was aimed to measure the application of W-shaped acetabular angular plate (WAAP) through direct posterior approach (DPA) on the reconstruction of acetabular posterior wall fractures when compared with reconstruction plates. A retrospective study was performed on patients treated with the WAAP or reconstruction plates via the DPA. The intraoperative data of operative time, blood loss and radiation exposure times were recorded. Radiographs of the pelvis and CT scan were obtained within one week post-operation to assess the reduction quality. The clinical outcome was evaluated by the modified Merle d'Aubigne and Postel score. From May 2016 to October 2019, a total of 41 patients with simple acetabular posterior wall fractures were included in this study, 22 from the WAAP group and 19 from the reconstruction plates group. There were no significant differences between the two group in age, gender, time from injury to operation, cause of injuries, length of incision and follow-up time (P > 0.05). In comparison with the reconstruction plates group, the average operation time of the WAAP group was significantly shorter (46.1 ± 12.7min vs 59.2 ± 17.4min, P < 0.05), the average radiation exposure times were significantly less (2.3 ± 0.6 vs 3.6 ± 1.0, P < 0.001), the average blood loss was significantly less (240 ± 98.9ml vs 301.1 ± 66.6ml, P < 0.05). According to Matta radiology criteria and the modified Merle d' Aubigne and Postel score, no significant difference was observed between the two group, as for the quality of reduction and function outcomes. The application of WAAP through DPA showed satisfactory preliminary clinical outcomes, showing promise to be an alternative technique for the treatment of acetabular posterior wall fractures.

Predicting the Poor Clinical and Radiographic Outcomes after the Anatomical Reduction and Internal Fixation of Posterior Wall Acetabular Fractures: A Retrospective Analysis.

Anatomical reduction is the fundamental principle of hip function restoration after posterior acetabular wall fractures (PWFs). Some patients exhibit poor outcomes despite anatomical reduction, and the prognostic factors leading to poor outcomes remain elusive. This study aimed to investigate the clinical and radiographic outcomes in patients with PWFs who had undergone anatomical reduction and internal fixation and to identify the predictors that impair clinical and radiologic outcomes. The clinical records of 60 patients with elementary PWFs who had undergone anatomical reduction and internal fixation between January 2005 and July 2015 were reviewed retrospectively. The Harris hip score (HHS) and modified Merle d’Aubigné clinical hip scores (MMAS) were used to evaluate the clinical outcome. Preoperative and final follow-up radiographs were cross checked to identify poor radiographic outcomes that included the presence of advanced osteoarthritis and osteonecrosis, as well as the need for conversion to total hip arthroplasty. Acetabular dome comminution was assessed from computerized tomography, and the outcomes were further evaluated according to the involvement of fragment comminution. The fracture comminution and age were negatively correlated with functional outcomes (correlation coefficients were −0.41 and −0.39 in HHS and MMAS, respectively) and were significantly related to the severity of osteoarthritis and osteonecrosis as well as the need for total hip arthroplasty. Regarding the radiographic factors, significantly worse post-operative HHS and MMAS were found in the fracture comminution group. In the subanalysis of the status of fracture comminution, patients with fragment comminution involving the acetabular dome had significantly lower functional scores than those with other fracture patterns. In conclusion, age, fracture comminution, and dome comminution were the prognostic indicators of advanced osteoarthritis and poor functional scores after the anatomical reduction and internal fixation of PWFs. We emphasized the relevance of acetabular dome comminution as an important contributing factor to clinical and radiographic outcomes.

Midterm results of digastric trochanteric flip osteotomy for high acetabular posterior wall fracture

PurposeKocher-Langenbeck (K-L) approach is widely used in surgery of posterior wall fracture of acetabulum. However, challenges are frequently encountered in fractures involving the superior dome due to its short of view. We aimed to evaluate the efficacy of digastric trochanteric flip osteotomy (DTFO) in the K-L approach for high posterior wall acetabular fracture (HPWF).MethodsFrom January 2014 to December 2016, 39 patients who suffered high posterior wall fracture (HPWF) were included in this retrospective study. All the patients were divided into two groups according to surgery type (17 standard K-L approach (control group), 22 with DTFO (DTFO group)). The Matta criterion was used to evaluate the accuracy of reduction according to post-operative CT image, while modified Harris hip score and 12-item short-form health survey (SF-12) were applied to measure the clinical outcomes.ResultsThe median follow-up period was 55 (45 to 62.5) months. Blood loss and operation time were similar between the two groups. DTFO group achieved much more anatomical reduction than the control group (54.6% vs. 35.3%; OR, 2.2; 95% CI, 0.6 ~ 8.08). Significantly better functional outcomes were found in the DTFO group (10% higher points than the control group, p < 0.05). All the patients receiving good-to-anatomical reduction ended with good or excellent outcomes. The total incidence of complications in the DTFO group was much lower than in the control group (40.9% vs. 70.6%, p = 0.07).ConclusionsCompared with the traditional K-L approach, the intraoperative DTFO technique enabled better quality of reduction in patients with HPWF, thus ensuring superior clinical outcomes.

A combination of the K-L and S-P approaches for treating acetabular posterior wall factures accompanied by femoral head fractures with open reduction and internal fixation

BackgroundIn clinical practice, acetabular posterior wall fracture combined with femoral head fracture is rare. However, with the increasing number of engineering and traffic accidents, such fractures, have increased significantly in recent years. This paper aims to explore the clinical efficiency of the Kocher-Langenbeck (K-L) and Smith-Petersen (S-P) combined approaches for open reduction and internal fixation (ORIF) of acetabular posterior wall fractures accompanied by femoral head fractures (Pipkin type IV fractures).MethodsA retrospective study was conducted on 8 patients who underwent open reduction and internal fixation (ORIF) of Pipkin type IV fractures through the K-L combined with S-P approach in our hospital from January 2015 to January 2020. All 8 patients were successfully operated on without serious complications, such as important blood vessel and nerve damage, with an operation time of 143.8 ± 44.38 min and intraoperative blood loss of 225 ± 70.71 ml. Perioperative data were recorded. The Harris score was used to evaluate the clinical effect. Fracture reduction quality was evaluated according to the Matta radiological standard. The grade of ectopic ossification was evaluated by the Brooker grading method, and the stage of femoral head necrosis was evaluated by Ficat-Arlet staging.ResultsThe Harris score increased significantly from 57.38 ± 4.779 at 3 months, to 76.13 ± 3.682 at 6 months, 88.25 ± 3.495 at 12 months, and 92.13 ± 2.232 at 36 months postoperatively. After statistical analysis, compared with the previous observation time point, the data comparison differences between the groups were statistically significant. P < 0.001, P < 0.001, P < 0.05). By the time of the latest follow-up, 6 of the 8 patients had recovered to the level of pre-injury sports capacity. In contrast, the other 2 patients remained below the level of pre-injury sports capacity. In terms of imaging evaluation, the quality of fracture reduction on radiographs was graded as excellent in 6 patients and good in 2 patients according to Matta’s criteria. At the last follow-up, no heterotopic ossification or femoral head necrosis was found in of all the images. In addition, the hip joint space was normal in 6 cases, mildly narrowed in 1 case, and clearly narrowed in 1 case.ConclusionsThe K-L combined with S-P approach provides effective exposure for the reduction and fixation of Pipkin type IV fractures and achieves satisfactory clinical outcomes.