Anterior intrapelvic approach and suprapectineal quadrilateral surface plate for acetabular fractures with anterior involvement: a retrospective study of 34 patients

Developing a core outcome set for acetabular fractures: a systematic review (part I)

BACKGROUND

There are indications that clinical studies investigating the surgical treatment of acetabular fractures assess different outcomes. This heterogeneity reduces the comparability of study results and, thus, limits the knowledge generated from research. Core outcome sets (COS) contain a minimum set of outcomes that should be measured in studies investigating a specific disease or injury. A COS for surgically treated acetabular fractures does not yet exist. Therefore, the aim of this study is to identify the reported outcomes in studies investigating the surgical treatment of acetabular fractures.

METHODS

Studies including skeletally mature individuals (≥ 16 years) with isolated acetabular fractures treated surgically were included. Studies with polytrauma patients, pathological fractures, additional pelvic fractures, exclusively non-surgical treatment, or juvenile individuals were excluded. Three databases and two clinical trial registries were searched on 15 November 2022. The identified outcomes were grouped and subsequently categorized according to the Core Outcome Measures in Effectiveness Trials Guidelines.

RESULTS

A total of 193 studies were included, which reported a cumulative total of 2581 outcomes. After grouping, 266 unique outcomes were identified. No outcome was examined in all studies. Pain, ability to walk independently, range of motion, quality of reduction, and heterotopic ossification were the most reported unique outcomes and assessed in at least 60% of included studies. A total of 105 outcomes were only assessed in one of the included studies. Outcomes of all five core areas and 25 outcome domains of the Core Outcome Measures in Effectiveness Trials taxonomy were examined. Furthermore, outcomes were named and defined differently, measured at different time points, and assessed using a variety of measurement instruments.

CONCLUSION

Overall, this systematic review shows that a wide range of outcomes are measured in studies examining surgical treatment of acetabular fractures. The results of this systematic review will be used in a subsequent study to develop the COS for surgically treated acetabular fractures by using the Delphi method.

SYSTEMATIC REVIEW REGISTRATION

PROSPERO: CRD42022357644; COMET: 2123.

Bibliometric Analysis of Dual Mobility Total Hip Arthroplasty

Purpose

For end stage arthritis of the hip joint, total hip arthroplasty (THA) is the treatment of choice. Dual mobility (DM) liner is an implant designed to provide enhanced stability. Long-term effects and implant survivability remain areas of active research despite modern advancements in increased jump distance and dislocation reductions. The aim of this study is to understand the current research landscape and emerging trends through a bibliometric analysis of DM THA.

Materials and Methods

An analysis of THA DM publications from between 1982-2022 was conducted through an extensive review of Web of Science Core Collection literature. To identify key trends, contributions, and thematic areas of focus, data on publications, authors, institutions, and countries were extracted and analyzed.

Results

The bibliographic search identified 314 articles, with a notable increase in publications over the period of study. Globally, the leading contributors were France and the USA. The analysis highlighted the Journal of Arthroplasty as the most relevant journal. Research themes included mechanical complications, comparative outcomes, metallosis, and corrosion concerns.

Conclusion

This study provides a comprehensive DM THA research landscape overview highlighting postoperative outcome value. In an effort to guide future research, contributors, sources, and thematic trends were analyzed.

The intrapelvic approach to the acetabulum

The today well accepted intrapelvic approach for acetabular and pelvic ring injury fixation was first described by Hirvensalo and Lindahl in 1993 followed by a more detailed description by Cole and Bolhofner in 1994. Compared to the well-known ilioinguinal approach, described by Letournel, this approach allows an intrapelvic view to the medial acetabulum, while using the ilioinguinal approach a more superior, extrapelvic view, is dissected to the area of the acetabulum. Several names have been used to describe the new intrapelvic approach with increasing usage, mainly ilio-anterior approach, extended Pfannenstiel approach, Stoppa-approach, Rives-Stoppa approach, modified Stoppa approach and recently anterior intrapelvic approach. Especially names including "Stoppa", based on the French surgeon Rene Stoppa, an inguinal hernia surgeon, have been discussed. In contrast to the presently used intrapelvic approach, the original the Rives-Stoppa approach refers to a sublay-retromuscular technique, which places a mesh posterior to the rectus muscle and anterior to the posterior rectus sheath without dissecting along the upper pubic ramus. Thus, intrapelvic approach is not a Rives-Stoppa approach. The Cheatle-Henry approach, another inguinal hernia approach, refers best to the presently used intrapelvic approach. Discussing the anatomy and the different dissections, this approach allows anteromedial access to the anterior column and a direct view from inside the true pelvis to the quadrilateral plate and medial side of the posterior column. Thus, we favor to use the term "Intrapelvic Approach".

The Use of Perpendicular Reconstruction Plates for the Buttressing of the Quadrilateral Surface Fractures of the Acetabulum: An Easy and Low-Cost Choice

The quadrilateral surface fractures of the acetabulum are becoming more frequent due to the aging population. The optimal fixation of the quadrilateral surface through an appropriate surgical approach and a reliable and effective technique presents a challenge for orthopedic trauma surgeons. In this study, we present the results of 12 patients treated in our department who underwent internal fixation of the quadrilateral surface with two reconstruction plates in a vertical orientation for adequate fracture buttressing. The clinical and radiological outcomes are encouraging, and we believe that this low-cost technique can be a reliable method for optimal fixation of acetabular quadrilateral surface fractures.

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.

Clinical and radiographic results of internal fixation of quadrilateral plate fractures of acetabulum

INTRODUCTION

Quadrilateral plate (QLP) is a relatively thin bony structure located below the pelvic brim proximal to the hip joint, so management of its fractures is challenging.

OBJECTIVES

Evaluation of the functional and radiological outcomes of internal fixation of quadrilateral plate acetabular fractures; comparison of two methods of fracture fixation.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

A prospective multicentric study including 30 patients who underwent open reduction and internal fixation of QLP fractures through modified Stoppa approach. Patients were divided into two groups according to the method of fixation (anatomical QLP plate vs suprapectineal and infrapectineal plates). Post-operative quality of reduction was evaluated using Matta score. Radiographical assessment according Matta's grading criteria and clinical outcome assessment using the Harris Hip Score (HHS) were repeated at follow-up and at one year to assess displacement.

RESULTS

Mean age of patients was 34.9 ± 12.1 years. After one year follow-up, clinically mean HHS was 88. ± 5.74. Radiologically post-operative reduction quality was anatomical in 21 (70%) patients, satisfactory in eight (26.7%) patients and unsatisfactory in one (3.3%) patient. Matta's grading at the last follow-up was excellent in 21 (70%) patients, good in six (20%), fair in two (6.7%) patients and poor in one (3.3%) patient. No significant difference was recorded between the two groups in terms of radiographical and clinical results and rate of complications.

CONCLUSION

Accurate reduction of quadrilateral plate fracture with secure fixation through modified Stoppa approach provides good and reproducible outcomes with few complications regardless the type of the implant.

Special contoured pelvic brim reconstruction titanium plate combined with trans-plate buttress screws (quadrilateral screws) for acetabular fractures with quadrilateral plate involvement through the anterior ilioinguinal approach

Background

Managing complicated acetabular fractures involving the quadrilateral plate (QLP) can be challenging for surgeons, especially when complicated by comminution and osteoporosis. Traditional implants do not provide sufficient fixed strength or a proper match. The new-type pre-contoured infrapectineal buttress plates may have drawbacks, such as inaccurate fitting on the medial surface of QLP and an inability to apply reversed compression force to resist medial displacement of femoral head. Therefore, the primary purpose of this study is to introduce a novel technique that utilizes a special contoured pelvic brim reconstruction titanium plate combined with quadrilateral screws to reduce and stabilize acetabular fractures involving the QLP through the ilioinguinal approach. Additionally, the secondary purpose is to evaluate both clinical effectiveness and radiological outcomes of this technique for QLP fractures.

Methods

We conducted a retrospective analysis of prospectively collected data from 48 patients (31 males and 17 females) who suffered from acute displaced fractures of the QLP and were treated between January 2012 and December 2019 using a special contoured plate combined with quadrilateral screws. The patients' mean age was 47.56 ± 11.31 years (range: 19-73 years). Fracture patterns included 20 both-column fractures, 12 anterior column and posterior hemitransverse fractures, eight T-type fractures, five transverse fractures and three anterior column fractures with the QLP affected, all of which had femoral head protrusion. Immediate postoperative reduction quality was evaluated according to Matta's criteria. Final clinical functions were assessed during follow-up using the modified Merle d'Aubigné and Harris Hip scores (HHS).

Results

The patients were followed up for an average of 48.36 ± 12.94 months (ranging from 24 to 84 months). The mean operative time was 246.08 ± 54.30 min (ranging from 178 to 397 min), and the average blood loss was 715.16 ± 263.84 ml (ranging from 400 to 2000ml). The radiological grading at postoperative stage showed anatomical reduction in 30 patients (62.50%), satisfactory reduction in 14 patients (29.17%), and poor reduction in four patients (8.33%). At the final follow-up, no re-protrusion of the femoral head was observed. In terms of functional outcome, the mean modified Merle d'Aubigné-Postel score was excellent in 26 patients (54.17%), good in 17 patients (35.42%), fair in four patients (8.33%), and poor in one patient (2.08%). The HHS was excellent in 23 patients (47.92%), good in 20 patients (41.67%), fair in four patients (8.33%), and poor in one patient (2.08%). The average HHS was 87.38 ± 7.86 (ranging from 52 to 98). Postoperative complications included lateral femoral cutaneous nerve injury in two patients, delayed wound healing and subsequent development of an inguinal hernia in one patient. Late complications were observed in two patients, with one case of heterotopic ossification and another case of post-traumatic osteoarthritis underwent hip arthroplasty within two years after surgery.

Conclusion

Our results indicate that employing the contoured plate specifically designed for QLP injuries, in conjunction with quadrilateral screws through the ilioinguinal approach, can lead to positive outcomes in the treatment of displaced acetabular fractures involving the QLP. This straightforward and efficient technique offers a viable option for surgeons who are managing complex acetabular fractures.

Quadrilateral plate classification program of acetabular fractures based on three-column classification: a three-dimensional fracture mapping study

BACKGROUND

A new classification system for acetabular fractures has been proposed in recent years, which is called the 3-column classification. However, this system does not provide information regarding quadrilateral plate fractures. To address this issue, we utilized three-dimensional (3D) fracture line mapping and heat map to analyze the link between the 3-column classification and quadrilateral plate fractures.

METHODS

We collected CT scan data from 177 patients who had been diagnosed with acetabular fractures. Additionally, we utilized a CT scan of a healthy adult to generate a standard acetabular model. We utilized the collected CT data of the fracture to create a 3D model and subsequently reduced it. We then matched each acetabular fracture model with the standard acetabular model and mapped all of the fracture lines to the standard model. 3D fracture lines and heat maps were created by overlapping all fracture lines. Fracture characteristics were then summarized using these maps.

RESULTS

This study analyzed a total of 221 acetabular fractures. The most frequently observed fracture type, based on the three-column classification, was A1.2, which corresponds to fractures of the anterior column. In contrast, the least common type of fracture was A4, which represents fractures of the central wall. It was noted that quadrilateral plate fractures were frequently observed in fractures classified as type B and C according to the three-column classification.

CONCLUSIONS

Among the three-column classification, the QLP fractures are commonly observed in type B and C. It is important to carefully identify these fractures during the diagnostic process. Therefore, based on the three-column classification, we have amalgamated quadrilateral plate fractures and formulated a classification program for acetabular fractures.

Clinical and Radiological Outcomes of Patients With Anterior Acetabulum Fractures Treated by the Modified Stoppa Approach

Introduction Acetabular fractures are intra-articular fractures involving the lower extremity's weight-bearing dome. These fractures require an anatomical reduction of the fracture fragments. This aim can be accomplished by the selection of an appropriate surgical approach. This study aimed to analyze the clinical and radiological outcomes of patients with fractures in the anterior part of the acetabulum who were treated by the modified Stoppa approach. Methods This prospective observational study was conducted from April 2022 to September 2023. The inclusion criteria were: (i) age between 18 and 70 years, (ii) displaced acetabular fracture (displacement > 3 mm), (iii) within three weeks of trauma (iv) acetabular fractures with involvement of anterior column. Exclusion criteria included: (i) patients with visceral injuries requiring colostomy, (ii) pathological fracture, (iii) open fractures of the acetabulum, and (iv) neglected fracture (more than three weeks). Intraoperative data regarding surgical time, amount of blood loss, and incidence of intraoperative complications were recorded. In the postoperative period, anteroposterior X-ray and Judet views of the pelvis X-ray were obtained. Matta criteria were used to judge the quality of Fracture reduction and fixation. All the patients to be included in this study had undergone a minimum follow-up duration of six months. At the last follow-up, an assessment of the functional outcome of the affected hip by Merle d'Aubigné Hip Score and Harris Hip Score was done. Results Twenty-four patients were included in the study. The mean patient age was 36.08±11.65 years. Eighteen patients were male (75%) and six patients were female in this study. All acetabular fractures were due to high-energy trauma: road traffic accidents in 22 cases (91%) and fall from height in two cases (9%). According to Judet & Letournel's classification, there were 13 T-type fractures, five transverse fractures, and six associated both column fractures. The mean duration of surgery was 152.08 ±29.19 minutes, and the mean intraoperative blood loss was 277.08±85.95 ml. Intraoperatively one unit of blood transfusion was done in most cases. There were intraoperative complications of rent in the external iliac vein in two patients. Postoperative X-rays showed anatomical reduction in 17 cases, imperfect reduction in five cases, and poor reduction in two cases. Functional outcome of the hip by Merle d'Aubigné Hip Score was very good in 15, good in four, fair in three, and poor in two patients. Similar functional outcomes were obtained with the Harris Hip Score. Conclusion The results of the current study demonstrated that the modified Stoppa approach allows good visualization of the pelvic brim, quadrilateral surface, and posterior column. Lesser experienced orthopedic surgeons should utilize this approach to get good radiological and functional outcomes.

Predictors of in-hospital surgical site infections in surgically managed acetabular fractures: A nationwide analysis

Background

A surgical site infection (SSI) rate of 4%-8% has been reported in patients who undergo open reduction and internal fixation (ORIF) for acetabular fractures. Studies have identified risk factors for SSI, but none have performed a nationwide analysis of SSI in surgically managed acetabular fracture patients.

Methods

The National Inpatient Sample (NIS) database was queried for patients who underwent ORIF for acetabular fractures from 2016 to 2019. Analysis was performed on all patients who underwent ORIF for acetabular fractures, as well as those who only underwent ORIF for isolated acetabular fractures. Clinical characteristics, hospital course, discharge disposition, and hospitalization costs were compared between groups. Multivariate regression analysis was conducted to assess predictors of SSI.

Results

41,725 patients undergoing acetabular fracture repair were identified, of which 490 (1.2%) developed SSI during hospitalization. Age (45.90 vs 49.90, p < 0.001) and Injury Severity Scale (5.99 vs 8.30, p < 0.001) were increased in patients who developed SSI. History of hypertension (HTN) (OR = 2.343, 95% CI 1.96-2.80, p < 0.001), longer hospital length of stay (30.27 days vs 10.00 days, p < 0.001) and total charges ($469,005 vs $193,032, p < 0.001) were associated with SSI. Lower rates of routine discharge were seen in SSI patients (OR = 0.333, 95% CI 0.260-0.426, p < 0.001). Higher rates of inpatient death were associated with SSI (OR = 2.210, 95% CI 1.172-4.17, p = 0.019). Multiple procedures in addition to acetabular fracture repair, iliac artery embolization, substance abuse, later time to internal fixation and HTN were predictive of SSI (p < 0.001).

Conclusions

Severity of injury, time to fixation, and factors associated with compromised cardiovascular integrity were predictors of SSI. Identifying patients at risk for SSI should lead to clinical maneuvers that may optimize outcome.

Clinical application of the anterior pelvic wall locking plate (APWLP) in acetabular fractures involving the quadrilateral surface

BACKGROUND

The management of acetabular quadrilateral surface fractures remains challenging for surgeons, and the treatment options for such fractures remain controversial. Quadrilateral surface surgery is a complex procedure involving combined approaches, and the quality of fracture reduction closely depends upon the surgical procedure, as well as the skill and experience of the surgeon. This study aimed to explore the clinical effects of applying an anterior pelvic wall locking plate (APWLP) through the lateral-rectus approach for treating acetabular fractures involving the quadrilateral surface.

METHODS

This retrospective analysis was comprised of 35 patients with acetabular fractures involving the quadrilateral surface who were treated with an APWLP in our hospital between June 2016 and December 2020. The patients included 25 males and ten females, with an average age of 52.45 years. All the patients were exposed through the lateral-rectus approach, six patients were exposed with an additional iliac fossa approach, and the fractures were fixed by combining an APWLP with a reconstruction plate. The Matta imaging standard was used to assess the quality of the fracture reduction, and the final follow-up clinical outcome was classified as excellent (18 points), good (15-17), fair (13-14), or poor (< 13) according to the modified Merle d'Aubigné-Postel scoring standard.

RESULTS

All patients successfully completed the operation, and there was no blood vessel or nerve injury during any of the operations. The average follow-up period was 26.11 months. The mean time of resuming full-weight-bearing activities was 12.88 weeks. Hip flexion and extension and internal and external rotation ranges of motion significantly increased over time. At the last follow-up, Matta's imaging evaluation showed that 24 cases were anatomically reduced, seven cases were satisfactory, and four cases were unsatisfactory. The satisfaction rate was 88.6% (31/35). According to the modified Merle d'Aubigné-Postel scoring standard, the hip function was excellent, good, fair, and poor in 23, 6, 4, and 2 cases, respectively. The excellent and good rates represented 82.9% of the total cases (29/35).

CONCLUSION

The findings suggest that the APWLP for acetabulum quadrilateral surface fracture achieve good to excellent clinical and radiological outcomes, and an APWLP may be a new treatment option for these fractures involving the quadrilateral surface.

Third-Generation Dynamic Anterior Plate-Screw System for Quadrilateral Fractures: Digital Design Based on 834 Pelvic Measurements

Background and Objectives: To investigate the digital measurement method for the plate trajectory of dynamic anterior plate-screw system for quadrilateral plate (DAPSQ), and then design a third-generation DAPSQ plate that conforms to the needs of the Chinese population through collating a large sample anatomical data. Materials and Methods: Firstly, the length of the pubic region, quadrilateral region, iliac region, and the total length of the DAPSQ trajectory were measured by a digital measurement approach in 22 complete pelvic specimens. Then, the results were compared with the direct measurement of pelvic specimens to verify the reliability of the digital measurement method. Secondly, 504 cases (834 hemilateral pelvis) of adult pelvic CT images were collected from four medical centers in China. The four DAPSQ trajectory parameters were obtained with the digital measurement method. Finally, the third-generation DAPSQ plate was designed, and its applicability was verified. Results: There was no statistically significant difference in the four trajectory parameters when comparing the direct measurement method with the digital measurement method (p > 0.05). The average lengths of the pubic region, quadrilateral region, iliac region, and the total length in Chinese population were (60.96 ± 5.39) mm, (69.11 ± 5.28) mm, (84.40 ± 6.41) mm, and (214.46 ± 10.15) mm, respectively. Based on the measurement results, six models of the DAPSQ plate including small size (A1,A2), medium size (B1,B2), and the large size (C1,C2) were designed. The verification experiment showed that all these six type plates could meet the requirement of 94.36% cases. Conclusions: A reliable computerized method for measuring irregular pelvic structure was proposed, which not only provided an anatomical basis for the design of the third-generation DAPSQ plate, but also provided a reference for the design of other pelvic fixation devices.

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.

Is Cemented Dual-Mobility Cup a Reliable Option in Primary and Revision Total Hip Arthroplasty: A Systematic Review

Background: Instability is a common complication following total hip arthroplasty (THA). The dual mobility cup (DMC) allows a reduction in the dislocation rate. The goal of this systematic review was to clarify the different uses and outcomes according to the indications of the cemented DMC (C-DMC). Methods: A systematic review was performed using the keywords "Cemented Dual Mobility Cup" or "Cemented Tripolar Cup" without a publication year limit. Of the 465 studies identified, only 56 were eligible for the study. Results: The overall number of C-DMC was 3452 in 3426 patients. The mean follow-up was 45.9 months (range 12-98.4). In most of the cases (74.5%) C-DMC was used in a revision setting. In 57.5% DMC was cemented directly into the bone, in 39.6% into an acetabular reinforcement and in 3.2% into a pre-existing cup. The overall dislocation rate was 2.9%. The most frequent postoperative complications were periprosthetic infections (2%); aseptic loosening (1.1%) and mechanical failure (0.5%). The overall revision rate was 4.4%. The average survival rate of C-DMC at the last follow-up was 93.5%. Conclusions: C-DMC represents an effective treatment option to limit the risk of dislocations and complications for both primary and revision surgery. C-DMC has good clinical outcomes and a low complication rate.

Outcomes of acetabular fractures treated with acute fix and replace versus open reduction and internal fixation in elderly population: a multicentric retrospective study

PURPOSE

The optimal operative treatment for displaced acetabular fractures in elderly population is still object of debate. Acute fix and replace procedure, the so called "combined hip procedure" (CHP), was introduced because of the poor results of the open reduction and internal fixation (ORIF) alone. The aim of the study is to compare clinical outcomes of CHP and ORIF alone for the treatment of acetabular fractures in elderly patients.

METHODS

This is the largest multicentric retrospective analytical study, with a case-control design on the issue. Hospital records and clinical notes were reviewed to collect demographic, peri-operative, and clinical data.

RESULTS

A total of 45 patients met the inclusion criteria: 24 patients entered the CHP group whereas 21 entered the ORIF control group. The mean age was 69.5 +  - 1.12 years in the ORIF group and 73.4 +  - 1.84 in the control group. The most frequent traumatic mechanism was the fall from same level in both groups (37.5% CHP; 42.9% ORIF). Operating time was significantly lower in the CHP group compared to the ORIF group (207 +  - 11.0 ORIF; 175 +  - 9.16 CHP; p < 0.05). Moreover, full weight-bearing was allowed significantly earlier in the CHP group compared to ORIF alone (37.3 +  - 1.59 ORIF; 32.5 +  - 1.69 CHP; p < 0.05). Among the clinician-completed scores, the HHS at three months was higher in the CHP group (66.3 +  - 1.83 ORIF;73.6 +  - 2.09 CHP; p < 0.05). All the other clinical outcomes were similar in both study groups.

CONCLUSION

CHP is desirable treatment option in elderly patients with acetabular fracture when there are poor expected outcomes in terms of joint survival with ORIF alone.

Simultaneous reduction and fixation using an anatomical suprapectineal quadrilateral surface plate through modified Stoppa approach in superomedially displaced acetabular fractures

Treatment of superomedially displaced acetabular fractures including a quadrilateral surface (QLS) is challenging. We present a surgical technique using an anatomical suprapectineal QLS plate through the modified Stoppa approach and report the availability of this plate to treat this fracture type along with the surgical outcomes. Sixteen consecutive patients (14 men and 2 women) who underwent surgical treatment using an anatomical suprapectineal QLS plate through a modified Stoppa approach for superomedially displaced acetabular fractures between June 2018 and June 2020, were enrolled retrospectively. These fractures included 11 both-column fractures and 5 anterior-column and posterior hemitransverse fractures, which were confirmed on preoperative 3-dimensional computed tomography. Surgical outcomes were clinically assessed using the Postel Merle d’Aubigné (PMA) score and visual analog scale (VAS) score at the final follow-up, and radiological evaluations were performed immediately after the operation and at the final follow-up. For comparative analysis, 23 patients who underwent internal fixation with the conventional reconstruction plate through modified ilioinguinal approach between February 2010 and May 2018, were selected. This control group was composed of 18 both-column fractures and 5 anterior-column and posterior hemitransverse fractures. The follow-up period was at least 1 year in all patients. The mean operation time and blood loss was 109 min, and 853 ml, respectively, whereas 236 min, and 1843 ml in control group. Anatomical reduction was achieved in 14 (87.5%) patients, while imperfect reduction was achieved in the remaining 2 patients. At the final follow-up, radiographic grades were excellent, fair, and poor in 14 patients (87.5%), one, and one, respectively. The mean PMA score was 16.1 (range 13–18) and the mean VAS score was 1.0 (range 0–3). No secondary reduction loss or implant loosening was observed. However, 2 patients underwent conversion to total hip arthroplasty (THA) due to post-traumatic arthritis and subsequent joint pain. No other complications were observed. In the comparative analysis, radiological outcome showed a significant relationship with the conversion to THA (p = 0.013). Shorter operation time and less blood loss were significantly observed in the QLS plate fixation group through the modified Stoppa approach compared with the conventional reconstruction plate fixation group through modified ilioinguinal approach (p < 0.001, respectively). Simultaneous reduction and fixation using an anatomical suprapectineal QLS plate through the modified Stoppa approach may be a viable technique in superomedially displaced acetabular fractures along with shorter operation time and less blood loss.

The Pararectus approach in acetabular fractures treatment: functional and radiologcial results

BACKGROUND

The surgical treatment of complex acetabular fractures is one of the most challenging procedures for orthopedic surgeons. The Pararectus approach, as a reasonable alternative to the existing surgical procedures, was performed for the treatment of acetabular fractures involving the anterior column. This study aimed to evaluate outcome using the Pararectus approach for acetabular fractures involving anterior columns.

METHODS

Thirty-seven with displaced acetabular fractures involving anterior columns were treated between July 2016 and October 2019 using the Pararectus approach. The functional outcomes (using the Merle d Aubigné and Postel scoring system, WOMAC and modified Harris scoring), the quality of surgical reduction (using the Matta criteria), and postoperative complications were assessed during approximately 26 months follow-up period.

RESULTS

Thirty-seven patients (mean age 53 years, range: 30-71; 28 male) underwent surgery. Mean intraoperative blood loss was 840 ml (rang: 400-2000 ml) and mean operating time was 210 min (rang: 140-500 min). The modified Merle d Aubigné score was excellent and good in 27 cases (73%), fair in 6 cases (16%), and poor in 3 cases (11%). The mean score was 88.5 (range:77-96) for the modified Harris Hip scores, and 22 (range:7-35) for the WOMAC scores after operation. Postoperative functional outcomes were significantly improved compared with preoperative outcomes (P < 0.0001). The quality of reduction was anatomical in 21 cases (57%), satisfactory in 9 cases (24%), and unsatisfactory in 7 cases (19%). At follow-up, four patients developed a DVT, and heterotopic bone formation was observed in one patient. The hip osteoarthritis was not observed.

CONCLUSION

The Pararectus approach achieved good functional outcomes and anatomical reduction in the treatment of acetabular fractures involving anterior column with minimal access morbidity.