Treatment Of Acetabular Fractures Research Articles

Diagnostic performance of digital tomosynthesis for postoperative assessment of acetabular fractures and pelvic ring injuries.

Digital tomosynthesis (DTS) has broad non-orthopaedic applications and has seen limited use within orthopaedics for imaging of the wrist. The utility of DTS for assessing reduction and hardware placement following operative treatment of pelvic ring injuries and acetabular fractures has not previously been investigated. All operatively treated acetabular fractures and pelvic ring injuries that underwent surgical fixation within a one-year time span received both a computed tomography (CT) scan and a DTS scan as part of their routine postoperative imaging workup. Three orthopaedic traumatologists independently reviewed the images for face-value clinical utility. Radimetrics and PCXMC software were utilized on a subset of the study population's DTS and CT studies to calculate the effective and organ radiation doses delivered. 52 patients (22 acetabular fractures, 22 pelvic ring injuries, 7 pelvic ring and acetabular fractures, 2 femoral head & acetabular fractures) were included. DTS was considered adequate to assess reduction 83% of the time, hardware position 83% of the time, and sufficient to replace the CT scan 67% of the time. DTS was associated with an 8.3 times lower effective radiation dose than CT. All organ doses were lower for DTS than CT. DTS appears to have face-value clinical utility for assessing reduction and hardware position following surgical treatment of acetabular fractures and pelvic ring injuries. Given that DTS is associated with significantly lower radiation doses to patients, further study utilizing more objective criteria is warranted.

Treatment of Geriatric Acetabular Fractures Using the Modified Stoppa Approach: A Review Article of Technique, Tips, and Pitfalls

The surgical treatment of geriatric acetabular fractures is becoming increasingly important due to a demographic change in age. While acetabular fractures used to occur more frequently in younger patients, they are currently more prevalent in geriatric patients. This change has also led to an increase in the frequency of anterior and combined anterior acetabular fractures. Surgery for geriatric acetabular fractures is very challenging, and surgeons need years of experience to be able to deal with the advantages and disadvantages of pelvic surgery. This is why a high level of surgical expertise is required. The aim of this article is to provide an insight into the topic of geriatric acetabular fractures with a critical narrative review of the current literature and a focus on minimally invasive surgical treatment using the modified Stoppa approach without patients’ own assessment. The modified Stoppa approach offers excellent visibility of the anterior structures of the acetabulum and can address the quadrilateral surface effectively. Pelvic surgery, in particular acetabular surgery, offers patients many advantages, such as rapid mobilization and the quick relief of pain symptoms. Total hip arthroplasty is currently being discussed as an alternative with good results for certain types of acetabular fractures in older patients, though it requires clarification of studies and recommendations.

Use of Dual Mobility Cups Reduce Dislocation Risk After Internal Fixation for Acetabular Fracture Concomitant With Total Hip Arthroplasty in Patients Who are Over 60 Years Old

Treatment of complex acetabular fractures in patients over 60 remains challenging. Functional treatments for these fractures have yielded disappointing outcomes. Internal fixation may fail facing this porotic bone, and postoperative non weight bearing may expose the patient to decubitus complications. Our hypothesis was that use of a dual mobility cup (DMC) reduces dislocation risk after concomitant internal fixation and total hip arthroplasty (THA) for acetabular fracture in patients who are over 60 years old. A retrospective, observational non comparative and continuous study was conducted from January 2015 to September 2022. Patients aged over 60 years who had displaced acetabular fractures, treated surgically via concomitant internal fixation and THA, utilizing a DMC exclusively through the Kocher-Langenbeck approach and a minimum follow-up was of one year, were included. There were 45 patients (45 hips) who had an average age of 71 (range, 60 to 88) who were included (75.5% men). The main mechanisms of injury were the motor vehicle accidents (in 21 cases (46,7%)). Bi-column fractures were prevalent (46.6%). The analysis of complications included intraoperatively nerve palsy, postoperatively dislocations, deep infections, periprosthetic fractures and loosening. Clinical assessment included the Harris hip score (HHS) and the level of return to previous activities. Radiological evaluation assessed fracture union, periprosthetic osteolysis, graft integration, the presence of leg length discrepancy (LLD) and heterotopic ossification. There was one case of dislocation (2.2%) requiring reoperation for replacement of the prosthetic neck, and one patient (2.2%) experienced early THA infection, successfully treated with surgical lavage and antibiotics. Functional outcomes showed a mean HHS of 88 (range, 69 to 99) and 84% of patients resumed their previous activities. Radiological follow-up revealed no loosening. This study has shown that the use of DMC in concomitant THA with Open Reduction and Internal Fixation (ORIF) for acetabular facture in patient over age 60 years achieved a low dislocation rate with favorable clinical and radiological outcomes and a low complication rate.

Periprosthetic acetabular fractures: classifications, treatment and challenges

Periprosthetic acetabular fractures (PPAF) are fractures of the acetabulum with ahip endoprosthesis in place. They are arare complication, although they are occurring more frequently due to the increase in patients being fitted with total hip arthroplasty (THA) and the long service life of the implants. At present, only asmall amount of scientific literature exists, particularly regarding the surgical treatment of these fracture types.The aim of this paper is to provide an overview of the topic of PPAF with acritical review of the current literature and to present the necessary surgical treatment.An evaluation of the current literature on the topic of PPAF with afocus on the surgical treatment of fractures is carried out.Surgical treatment is technically demanding due to the pelvic ring instability with removal of the bone tension for secure acetabular cup fixation and should lead to the recovery of the biomechanical stability of the pelvis and thus the secure anchoring of the acetabular cup. An interdisciplinary approach requiring both trauma surgery and orthopaedic expertise is certainly recommended, as older and comorbid patients with poor bone quality are particularly frequently affected.The treatment of periprosthetic acetabular fractures, especially in older patients, requires not only the individual expertise of surgeon involved in the operation but also agoal-oriented and consistent interdisciplinary approach by the surgeons involved from the fields of orthopaedics and trauma surgery in view of the patients' frequent comorbidities. By working together, the optimal and individualized operation can be performed for the patient.

Posterior approaches to the acetabulum.

Posterior approaches, particularly the Kocher-Langenbeck approach, remain the workhorses in the treatment of acetabular fractures. Various modifications have been developed, each offering specific advantages depending on surgical requirements. The modified Gibson approach, for example, is suggested to provide enhanced visualization of the superior acetabulum, although recent cadaveric studies have not consistently substantiated this benefit. The Ganz approach, which involves bigastric trochanteric osteotomy with safe surgical hip dislocation, is particularly advantageous for managing complex and comminuted posterior acetabular fractures, as it enables a 360° view of the acetabulum and femoral head. Overall, posterior approaches are associated with low rates of complications, with heterotopic ossification being the most prevalent. The choice of surgical approach and patient positioning should be guided by the surgeon's preference and expertise, tailored to the specific fracture pattern and patient characteristics.

Combining Innovative Techniques: Total Extraperitoneal Approach in Orthopedic Surgery (O-TEP) and Percutaneous Both Column Screw (BCS) Fixation Technique in a Geriatric Acetabular Fracture Case.

The concepts of both column fixation corridor (BCFC) and both column screws (BCS) along with the orthopedic total extraperitoneal approach (O-TEP) are highly innovative approaches in orthopedic surgery. However, the orthopedic literature lacks sufficient studies on these topics, indicating a significant gap. This case report aims to highlight how combining these innovative techniques can facilitate the use of BCFC and BCS in the treatment of acetabular fractures with O-TEP, thereby enhancing the feasibility of endoscopic techniques. Furthermore, we aim to discuss the potential advantages of BCFC and BCS concepts when used in O-TEP.For this purpose, we present a case of a 74-year-old geriatric patient with a transverse acetabular fracture involving the posterior column. The quadrilateral surface was exposed using the O-TEP approach, and the fracture was reduced using a fully endoscopic approach. The fixation was achieved using BCS and a Magic screw through percutaneous screw placement.The patient's clinical condition was followed for at least 13 months. The clinical outcomes demonstrated the effectiveness of combining these innovative techniques in the treatment of acetabular fractures, with satisfactory healing and functional recovery observed.This case report illustrates that combining BCFC and BCS with the O-TEP approach can facilitate the treatment of acetabular fractures with minimally invasive techniques and enhance the feasibility of endoscopic procedures. These findings suggest potential advantages of using BCFC and BCS concepts in O-TEP, warranting further investigation and study.

The Pararectus approach: a preferred surgical approach for fixation of acetabular fractures predominantly involving the anterior column - a narrative review.

Beginning in France in the 1960s, the management of acetabular fractures has increasingly evolved toward surgical treatment strategies. The basic principles established by the pioneers of acetabular surgery, Letournel and Judet - anatomical reconstruction of the joint and stable osteosynthesis - remain unchanged. Modern advancements in surgical techniques aim to reduce access-related trauma and minimize complications. The notable rise in acetabular fractures among the elderly, which predominantly affect the anterior aspects of the acetabulum, has driven the development of less invasive, soft tissue-sparing anterior approaches. This evolution began with the ilio-inguinal approach in the 1960s, progressed to the modified Stoppa approach in the 2000s and, most recently, the Pararectus approach in the 2010s. Each of these approaches upholds the fundamental principles of effective acetabular fracture care, while offering distinct advantages and disadvantages. In this review, we examine the merits and limitations of the Pararectus approach, specifically focusing on its utility in the surgical treatment of anterior column posterior hemitransverse acetabular fractures. Ultimately, the success of the individual patient's outcome is less dependent on the chosen approach and more on the surgeon's experience and expertise. Ideally, surgeons should be proficient in all these approaches to tailor the surgical strategy to the individual patient's requirements, thereby ensuring optimal outcomes.

Primary stability of multi-hole acetabular cup combined with posterior column plating for the fixation of complex acetabular fractures in elderly patients: a biomechanical analysis.

Acute total hip arthroplasty has gained increasing popularity in the treatment of complex acetabular fractures in elderly patients, but the biomechanical evidence is lacking. Therefore, we measured the primary stability to evaluate whether acute total hip arthroplasty using a multi-hole acetabular cup and posterior column plating through a single K-L approach can safely be used for treating complexed acetabular fractures in the elderly. In 18 composite osteoporotic hemipelves, T-type acetabular fractures were treated in three ways: CSP (Cup with acetabular screws augmentation combined with posterior plate) group, CP (Cup without acetabular screw combined with posterior plate) group and CSPA (Cup with acetabular screws combined with posterior plate and anterior plate) group. Each specimen was dynamically loaded (300 to 1700N, 1Hz). Primary stability of the acetabular cup and fracture gap was evaluated by 3-dimensional (3D) micromotions. No significant differences in the 3D-micromotions were observed among the CSP, CP and CSPA groups except the test point on the anterior column of the acetabulum in the CP scenario (CSP 49.33 ± 21.08μm vs. CP 224.83 ± 52.29μm, p < 0.001; CSPA 45.50 ± 12.16μm vs. CP 224.83 ± 52.29μm, p < 0.001). No significant differences in the fracture gap displacement on the posterior column of acetabulum were observed among the CSP, CP and CSPA groups. Our results show, that acute total hip arthroplasty using a multi-hole cup with acetabular screws and posterior column plating through single a K-L approach offers good primary stability to allow good osseous integration for treating complex acetabular fractures in the elderly. Furthermore, it also provides good fracture gap displacement on the posterior column.

Doctor, When Should I Start Walking? Revisiting Postoperative Rehabilitation and Weight-Bearing Protocols in Operatively Treated Acetabular Fractures: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis.

Background and Objectives: Management of acetabular fractures is aimed at anatomically reducing and fixing all displaced or unstable fractures, as the accuracy of fracture reduction has been demonstrated to strongly correlate with clinical outcomes. However, there is a noticeable gap in the literature concerning the perioperative and postoperative care of patients with acetabular fractures, which ultimately can be potential risk factors for adverse outcomes and permanent disabilities. This study aimed to systematically review the available literature regarding rehabilitation practices, including weight-bearing protocols, across time points in surgically treated acetabular fracture patients and correlate these practices with functional outcomes. Methods: We systematically reviewed the Medline and PubMed databases and the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials in accordance with Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines. The inclusion criteria were studies with adult patients (19+ years), publications from the last 10 years, articles focusing on rehabilitation or mentioning any aspect related to rehabilitation (such as weight-bearing or muscle training), and describing the surgical management of acute, isolated acetabulum fractures. Specific information was collected, including the fracture classification, time to surgery, surgical approach, surgical time, blood loss, fixation strategy, quality of reduction, postoperative rehabilitation protocol, complication rate, type(s) of complication, and outcome measurement(s). The choice(s) of surgical approach, surgical time, blood loss, and fixation strategy were stratified based on the fracture classification. The complication rate and type(s) of complication were calculated for all studies. Fractures were classified based on the Letournel classification. Results: A total of 494 articles were identified from the initial search, of which 22 (1025 patients) were included in the final review. The most common rehabilitation protocol favored isometric quadriceps and abductor strengthening exercises starting on the first postoperative day, with passive hip movement at 1-3 days postoperatively and active hip movement ranging from the first postoperative day to 4 weeks postoperatively. Partial weight-bearing with a walker or a pair of crutches was permitted from 1 to 12 weeks after surgery, and full weight-bearing was allowed depending on the patient's general condition and fracture healing state (generally at the end of 3 months). In only three studies did the patients start bearing weight in the early postoperative period (≤1 week). Meta-regression analysis was not performed due to the discrepancy between studies that reported a weight-bearing protocol ≤1 week and >1 week postoperatively. Conclusions: Our study suggests that an accelerated postoperative rehabilitation protocol, including early permissive weight-bearing, does not appear to increase the risk of loss of reduction or the rate of complications after surgical treatment of acetabular fractures. However, a proper meta-analysis was not possible, and the heterogeneity of the included studies did not allow us to conclude anything about the potential biomechanical and clinical benefits nor the negative effects related to this rehabilitation regimen in terms of functional results. There is an inconsistent use of PROMs for objectively calculating the effect size of the accelerated protocol compared with restricted weight-bearing regimes. We pose the need for higher-level evidence to proof our hypothesis.

A clinical study of HoloSight Orthopaedic Trauma Surgery Robot-assisted infra-acetabular screw placement for acetabular fractures

To investigate the effectiveness of HoloSight Orthopaedic Trauma Surgery Robot-assisted infra-acetabular screw placement for treatment of acetabular fractures. The clinical data of 23 patients with acetabular fractures treated with open reduction and internal fixation and infra-acetabular screw placement in two medical centers between June 2022 and October 2023 were retrospectively analyzed. According to the the method of infra-acetabular screw placement, the patients were divided into navigation group (10 cases, using HoloSight Orthopaedic Trauma Surgery Robot-assisted screw placement) and freehand group (13 cases, using traditional X-ray fluoroscopy to guide screw placement). There was no significant difference in gender, age, body mass index, cause of injury, time from injury to operation, and Judet-Letournel classification between the two groups ( P>0.05). The time of infra-acetabular screw placement, the fluoroscopy frequency, the guide pin adjustment times, the quality of screw placement, the quality of fracture reduction, and the function of hip joint were compared between the two groups. All patients completed the operation successfully. The time of screw placement, the fluoroscopy frequency, and guide pin adjustment times in the navigation group were significantly less than those in the freehand group ( P<0.05). The quality of screw placement in the navigation group was significantly better than that in the freehand group ( P<0.05). Patients in both groups were followed up 6-11 months, with an average of 7.7 months. There were 9 and 9 cases in the navigation group and the freehand group who achieved excellent and good fracture reduction quality at 1 week after operation, and 12 and 12 cases with excellent and good hip joint function at last follow-up, respectively, and there was no significant difference between the two groups ( P>0.05). The fractures in both groups healed well, and there was no significant difference in healing time ( P>0.05). During the follow-up, there was no complication related to screw placement, such as failure of internal fixation, vascular and nerve injury, incisional hernia. In the treatment of acetabular fractures, compared with the traditional freehand screw placement, the HoloSight Orthopaedic Trauma Surgery Robot-assisted screw placement can reduce the time of screw placement, improve the accuracy of screw placement, and reduce the amount of radiation, which is an efficient, accurate, and safe surgical method.

Developing a core outcome set for acetabular fractures: a systematic review protocol

BackgroundClinical trials investigating acetabular fractures are heterogeneous in their investigated outcomes and their corresponding measurements. Standardization may facilitate comparability and pooling of research results, which would lead to an increase in knowledge about the optimal treatment of acetabular fractures, resulting in long-term evidence-based treatment decisions and improvements in patient care. The aim of this systematic review is to identify the reported outcomes and their measurements from studies on treatments for acetabular fractures to develop a core outcome set which contains the most relevant outcome measures to be included in future studies.MethodsStudies published in English and German including patients aged 16 years and older, with a surgically treated acetabular fracture, will be included. Studies with nonsurgical treatment, pathologic fractures, polytraumatized patients, and patients younger than 16 years of age will be excluded because other outcomes may be of interest in these cases. Any prospective and retrospective study will be included. Systematic reviews will be excluded, but their included studies will be screened for eligibility. The literature will be searched on MEDLINE, CENTRAL, Web of Science, ClinicalTrials.gov, and WHO ICTRP. Risk of selective reporting of outcomes will be assessed using the Outcome Reporting Bias in Trials classification system. Heterogeneously defined outcomes that measure the same outcome will be grouped and subsequently categorized into outcome domains using the taxonomy of the Core Outcome Measures in Effectiveness Trials Initiative.DiscussionIt is expected that a high number of studies will be included, and many outcomes will be identified using different definitions and measurement instruments. A limitation of this systematic review is that only previously investigated outcomes will be detected, thus disregarding potentially relevant outcomes.Systematic review registrationPROSPERO CRD42022357644

Acetabular Fracture Outcomes and Complications: An International Comparison

Introduction While there have been many technological advances in the treatment of acetabular fractures since the landmark article by Judet and Letournel, the effectiveness of many of these advances have not been definitively determined. Comparing patient outcomes between two countries with differing amounts of technological resources may identify the efficacy of such resources. Methods This study retrospectively compared 489 patients (373 US, 116 Romania) who underwent open reduction and internal fixation (ORIF) for acetabular fracture(s) in a Romanian trauma center and a United States (US) trauma center between February 2011 and August 2018. Results US patients had a higher rate for the following comorbidities: diabetes (p=.0268), obesity (p&lt;.0001), and hypertension (p&lt;.0001). US patients had a significantly shorter pre-op delay (p&lt;.0001). Matta’s criteria for initial quality of reduction did not vary significantly between countries (p=.1101). No significant difference was found in rates of DVT (p=.0722), postoperative infections (p=.2819), sciatic nerve lesions (p=.9999), or loss of reduction (p=.9999). US patients had significantly higher Brooker criteria scores for heterotopic ossification (p&lt;.0001). Conclusions There were no significant differences in outcomes between US and Romanian patients even though US patients received treatment using the latest technology while Romanian patients were treated using substantially fewer resources. Given that technological advances in surgical technique come at a considerable price, it makes sense to build upon this study to gain a more precise understanding of how these advances improve outcomes for patients, and whether or not they are worth the added cost.

The “Metaizeau trick” to facilitate medullary pubic ramus screw insertion: A technical note

Minimally invasive procedures have recently seen an increase in the treatment of pelvic ring disruptions and select acetabular fractures. Similar to ilio-sacral screws, the superior pubic ramus screw is becoming a preferred method for treating unstable pelvic ring fractures. While the osteology of the superior pubic ramus is well understood and has inherent variability, standard screw insertion techniques work effectively in most cases. If the anatomy prevents the standard approach, there are alternative methods that can be employed for successful screw placement, or there might be a need for an open reduction and internal fixation with plates. Such techniques can be material-intensive and time-consuming. In this paper, we introduce a straightforward method that utilizes the Metaizeau nail as a guide wire to facilitate screw insertion in most instances, termed the “Metaizeau trick”. Metaizeau nails, commonly found in trauma centers, are designed to locate a pathway effortlessly using this method. Level of evidenceIV.

The Association of Acetabulum Fracture and Mechanism of Injury with BMI, Days Spent in Hospital, Blood Loss, and Surgery Time: A Retrospective Analysis of 67 Patients.

Background and Objectives: The objective of this retrospective study was to investigate the association between acetabulum fractures; the mechanism of injury; and variables such as BMI, duration of hospital stay, blood loss, and surgery time. By exploring these factors, we aim to enhance our understanding of them and their impact on the healing process and the subsequent management of pelvic fractures. Materials and Methods: This study included 67 of 136 consecutive patients who were admitted for pelvic ring fracture surgery between 2017 and 2022. The data were collected prospectively at a single trauma center. The inclusion criteria were acetabulum fractures and indications for operative treatment. The exclusion criteria were non-operative treatment for acetabular and pelvic ring fractures, fractures requiring primary total hip arthroplasty (THA), and periprosthetic acetabular fractures. Upon admission, all patients underwent evaluation using X-ray and computed tomography (CT) scans of the pelvis. Results: The present study found no statistically significant differences between the examined groups of patients with pelvic fractures in terms of BMI, surgery duration, length of hospital stay, and blood transfusion. However, two notable findings approached statistical significance. Firstly, patients who experienced a fall from height while sustaining a pelvic fracture required a higher number of blood transfusions (2.3 units) than those with other mechanisms of injury which was close to achieving statistical significance (p = 0.07). Secondly, patients undergoing posterior wall stabilization required a significantly lower number of blood transfusions than those with other specific pelvic injuries (0.33 units per patient), approaching statistical significance (p = 0.056). Conclusions: The findings indicated that factors such as BMI, time of surgery, blood loss, and the duration of hospital stay were not directly correlated with the morphology of acetabular fractures, the presence of additional trauma, or the mechanism of injury. However, in the studied group, the patients whose mechanism of trauma involved falling from height had an increased number of blood transfusions compared to other groups. Moreover, the patients who had surgery due to posterior wall acetabulum fracture had decreased blood transfusions compared to those with other Judet and Letournel types of fractures. Additionally, they had the shortest duration of surgery.

Vertical Versus Pfannenstiel Incision-Modified Stoppa Approach in the Treatment of Acetabular Fractures.

The aims of this study were to compare the patient and fracture characteristics, radiological, functional, and quality of life outcomes; the need for a lateral window approach and requirement of total hip arthroplasty; and complications in patients with simple and complex acetabular fractures who underwent a modified Stoppa approach through vertical and Pfannenstiel incisions. This was a retrospective comparison study. Level 1 trauma center. Patients with acetabular fractures (A-O-/-O-T-A type 62A-B-C) treated with vertical (group V) or Pfannenstiel (group P) incision-modified Stoppa approach between 2010 and 2020 were included. Patient characteristics, radiological evaluations (reduction quality and posttraumatic osteoarthritis), patient functional outcomes [12-item Short-Form Survey (SF-12) physical component score, SF-12 mental component score, Harris Hip Score, and Merle d'Aubigné-Postel], approach modifications and stratification by fracture type and complications were compared between those treated with vertical or Pfannenstiel incisions. One hundred four patients (mean age of 38.5 ± 14.3 years) were included. There was no significant difference between the Pfannenstiel or vertical groups regarding patient and fracture characteristics (P = 0.137), postoperative reduction quality (P = 0.130), or the mean functional and quality of life outcome scores at the last follow-up (P = 0.483 for the Harris Hip Score, P = 0.717 for the Merle d'Aubigné-Postel score, P = 0.682 for the SF-12 physical component score, and P = 0.781 for the SF-12 mental component score). In group P, significantly more patients needed additional lateral incisions (40.8% vs. 10.9%; P 0.001) and total hip replacement procedures (12.2% vs. 1.8%; P = 0.049). The total, early, and late complication rates were significantly higher in group P (P 0.001, P = 0.034, and P = 0.049, respectively). Pfannenstiel incision was associated with higher complication rates than vertical incision in acetabular fractures treated through a modified Stoppa approach. Fracture complexity is associated with the need for a lateral window approach and total hip arthroplasty, as well as a worse functional and radiological outcome regardless of incision type. However, it was not associated with the development of intraoperative or postoperative complications. Therapeutic Level III. See Instructions for Authors for a complete description of levels of evidence.

Mid-term Results of Total Hip Arthroplasty for Posttraumatic Osteoarthritis after Acetabular Fracture.

The prognosis of total hip replacement (THR) after open reduction and internal fixation (ORIF) versus THR following non-operative treatment of acetabular fractures is unclear. Few studies have been conducted in this regard. Therefore, the purpose of the current study was to perform an assessment and compare the functional outcomes for study subjects in the ORIF and non-ORIF groups during the follow-up period compared to baseline. This longitudinal comparative study, which included 40 patients who underwent THR for either posttraumatic arthritis after fixation of an acetabular fracture or arthritis following conservative management of a fracture, was conducted for 60 months. Twenty-four patients had undergone ORIF, and 16 patients had undergone nonoperative/conservative management for acetabular fractures. Following THR, the patients were followed up for monitoring of functional outcomes for the Harris hip score (HHS) and comparison between the ORIF and non-ORIF groups was performed. The HHS showed significant improvement in both ORIF and non-ORIF groups. At the end of the mean follow-up period, no significant variation in scores was observed between the groups, i.e., ORIF group (91.61±6.64) compared to non-ORIF group (85.74±11.56). A significantly higher number of re-interventions were required for medial wall fractures and combined fractures compared to posterior fractures (P<0.05). THR resulted in improved functional outcome during follow-up in both the groups; however, the ORIF group was observed to have better functional outcome. Re-intervention was not required for any of the posterior fractures at the end of the mean follow-up period.

Virtual preoperative planning and 3D-printed templates for pre-contoured plates in treatment of acetabular posterior wall fractures

To evaluate the feasibility and accuracy of virtual preoperative planning and 3D-printed templates for pre-contoured plates for the treatment of posterior wall fractures of the acetabulum. A retrospective analysis of 29 patients with posterior acetabular wall fractures treated between August 2017 and March 2021 were divided into 2 groups based on whether to use preoperative virtual planning and 3D printed template. In 3D-printing group, there were 14 patients, including 10 males and 4 females； aged from 21 to 53 years old；CT-based virtual surgical planning was done using Mimics and 3-Matic software and 3D-printed templates for pre-contoured plates were adopted. In conventional group, there were 15 patients, including 10 males and 5 females；aged from 19 to 55 years old；conventional method of intra-operative contouring to adapt the plate to the fracture region was adopted. Blood loss, surgical time, radiographic quality of reduction, and hip function were compared between groups. The difference in operation time and intraoperative blood loss was significant（P<0.05）. Twenty-three patients were followed up from 12 to 30 months, and the fractures in both groups healed with a healing time of 3 to 6 months. At the last follow-up, the Merle d'Aubign-Postel score of the 3D printed group was lower than that of the conventional group（P<0.05）, with no significant differences in walking ability, hip mobility and total score（P>0.05）. In 3D printing group, 6 cases were excellent, 5 cases were good, 3 cases were fair；in conventional group, 5 cases were excellent, 5 cases were good, 4 cases were fair, 1 case was worse；no significant difference between two groups（P>0.05）. Virtual preoperative planning and 3D-printed templates for pre-contoured plates can reduce operative time and the blood loss of surgery, improve the quality of reduction. This method is efficient, accurate and reliable to treat acetabular posterior wall fractures.

Isometry as a predictor of osteosynthesis result in fractures of the posterior acetabulum

Introduction More than 80% of injuries to the acetabulum involve its posterior parts or injuries associated with their destruction. Most poor outcomes of surgical treatment of acetabular fractures manifest themselves in the first 24 months. Surgeons consider accurate anatomical reduction of fragments to be the main predictor of good results. A number of researchers showed good results of its surgical treatment, including those with inaccurate reduction. Poor results also occur in patients with no risk factors and ideal reduction. Thus, inaccurate reduction does not always lead to poor results; the reasons for positive results have not been discussed.Purpose To evaluate the effect of maintaining hip joint isometry in surgical approach on the outcome of reconstructive operations in the treatment of traumatic destruction of the posterior parts of the acetabulum.Materials and methods From 2005 to 2021, surgeons from the Moscow Regional Research and Clinical Institute performed 120 reconstructive operations on 120 patients with fractures of the posterior structures of the acetabulum. Of these, 84 patients followed the recommended monitoring regimen, completed the Harris Questionnaire, and had radiographs taken within the specified time frame. From the 84 patients, two groups of 42 patients each were formed that differed in the method of treating the external rotators.Results During two years of follow-up after reconstructive surgery on the acetabulum, clinical indications for hip replacement were identified or hip replacement was performed in 5 patients in the first group and in 25 patients in the second (11.9 and 59.5%, respectively).Discussion Accurate reduction of fragments is considered to be the main condition for good results after reconstructive operations for fractures of the posterior part of the acetabulum.Maintaining the isometry in the joint, namely, cutting off and then reinserting external rotators while preserving the attachment sites and length of the muscles, can have a significant impact on the outcome of reconstructive operations for traumatic injuries of the posterior parts of the acetabulum due to maintaining isometry of the hip joint. It seems that the preservation of force vectors centering the femoral head in the acetabulum causes the growth of ossification that forms secondary congruence.Conclusions Maintaining hip joint isometry in surgical treatment of fractures of the posterior acetabulum by changing the method of treating the external rotators provides significantly better clinical outcomes.

No Difference in Acute Outcomes for Patients Undergoing Fix and Replace Versus Fixation Alone in the Treatment of Geriatric Acetabular Fractures.

To compare acute outcomes between patients undergoing fix and replace (FaR) versus open-reduction and internal fixation (ORIF) alone in the treatment of geriatric acetabular fractures. Retrospective Cohort Study. Single Level 2 Trauma Center. Consecutive acetabular fracture patients ≥ 55 years of age treated by two orthopaedic trauma surgeons at one tertiary care center from January 2017 to April 2022 with FaR versus ORIF were identified. Included were those with complete datasets within the 180-day global period. Excluded were patients with previous ORIF of the acetabulum or femur, or revision total hip arthroplasty. The primary outcomes were length of hospital stay (LOS), postoperative weight-bearing status, postoperative disposition, time to postoperative mobilization, and 90-day readmission rates. Secondary outcomes compared included demographic information, injury mechanism, surgical time, complications, revisions, and preoperative and postoperative Hip Disability and Osteoarthritis Outcomes Score for Joint Replacement (HOOS Jr.) scores. These were compared between FaR and ORIF groups. Seventeen FaR patients (average age 74.5 ± 9.0 years) and 11 ORIF patients (average age 69.4 ± 9.6 years) met inclusion criteria. Mean follow-up was 26.4 months (range: 6-75.6 months). More FaR group patients were ordered immediate weight-bearing as tolerated or partial weight-bearing compared with ORIF alone (70% vs. 9.0%, P = 0.03). More patients in the FaR group had pre-existing hip osteoarthritis compared with ORIF alone (71% vs. 27%, P = 0.05). Fracture classification ( P = 0.03) and Charlson Comorbidity Index ( P = 0.02) differed between the 2 groups. There were no other differences in demographics, LOS ( P = 0.99), postoperative disposition ( P = 0.54), time to postoperative mobilization ( P = 0.38), 90-day readmission rates ( P = 0.51), operative time ( P = 0.06), radiographic union ( P = 0.35), time to union ( P = 0.63), pre- ( P = 0.32) or postoperative HOOS Jr. scores ( P = 0.80), delta HOOS Jr. scores ( P = 0.28), or reoperation rates between groups ( P = 0.15). FaR and ORIF seem to be sound treatment options in the management of geriatric acetabular fractures. Patients in the FaR group achieved immediate or partial weight-bearing earlier than the ORIF group; however, time to postoperative mobilization did not differ between the two groups. The remainder of acute postoperative outcomes (LOS, postoperative disposition, and 90-day readmission rates) did not differ between the two groups. Therapeutic Level III. See Instructions for Authors for a complete description of levels of evidence.

Tripod Fixation of Periacetabular Metastatic Lesions Using the IlluminOss Device.

Percutaneous tripod fixation of periacetabular lesions is performed at our institution for patients with metastatic bone disease and a need for quick return to systemic therapy. We have begun to use the IlluminOss Photodynamic Bone Stabilization System instead of the metal implants previously described in the literature because of the success of the IlluminOss implant in fixing fragility fractures about the pelvis. At our institution, the procedure is performed in the interventional radiology suite in order to allow for the use of 3D radiographic imaging and vector guidance systems. The patient is positioned prone for the transcolumnar PSIS-to-AIIS implant and posterior column/ischial tuberosity implant or supine for the anterior column/superior pubic ramus implant. Following a small incision, a Jamshidi needle with a trocar is utilized to enter the bone at the chosen start point. A hand drill is utilized to advance the Jamshidi needle according to the planned vector; alternatively, a curved or straight awl can be utilized. The 1.2-mm guidewire is placed and reamed. We place both the transcolumnar and posterior column wires at the same time to ensure that there is no interference. The balloon catheter for the IlluminOss is assembled on the back table and inserted according to the implant technique guide. The balloon is inflated and observed on radiographs in order to ensure that the cavity is filled. Monomer is then cured, and the patient is flipped for the subsequent implant. Following placement of the 3 IlluminOss devices, adjunct treatments such as cement acetabuloplasty or cryoablation can be performed. Alternative treatments include traditional open fixation of impending or nondisplaced acetabular fractures in the operating room, or percutaneous implant placement in the operating room. Implant placement may be performed with the patient in the supine, lateral, or prone position, depending on surgeon preference. Alternative implants include standard metal implants such as plates and screws, or cement augmentation either alone or with percutaneous screws. Finally, ablation alone may be an alternative option, depending on tumor histology. Open treatment of acetabular fractures is a more morbid procedure, given the larger incision, increased blood loss, longer time under anesthesia, and increased length of recovery. Percutaneous fixation may be performed in either the operating room or interventional radiology suite, depending on the specific equipment setup at an individual institution. At our institution, we prefer utilizing the interventional radiology suite as it allows for more precise implant placement through the use of an image-based vector guidance system and 3D fluoroscopy to accurately identify safe corridors. The use of percutaneous fixation allows for faster recovery and earlier return to systemic therapy. Because the IlluminOss implant is radiolucent, it allows for better evaluation of disease progression and can better accommodate nonlinear corridors or fill a lytic lesion to provide stability. Postoperatively, we expect the patient to be weight-bearing as tolerated with use of an assistive device. We expect the small incisions to fully heal within 2 weeks. Patients should be able to return to systemic therapy as indicated earlier than with an open procedure. The use of a hand drill with the Jamshidi needle and trocar can help adjust a drilled pathway and allow for close adherence to a planned vector.Vector guidance systems can be useful to fully capture the area at risk for fracture and to provide maximal stability with the expandable implant, but they are not necessary to perform the procedure.Placing both posterior implants at the same time can be helpful to avoid interference. This is accomplished by drilling and placing the guidewire for both implants prior to reaming and placing the balloon implant. CT = Computed tomographyPSIS = posterior superior iliac spineAIIS = anterior inferior iliac spine.