Results of operative treatment of acetabular fractures from the Third World--how local factors affect the outcome

A Neglected Fracture of Acetabulum Treated With Total Hip Replacement

Total hip replacement (THR) for osteoarthritis or inflammatory arthritis yields better outcomes than THR for patients with neglected acetabular fractures. The inferior clinical results mostly arise from an unforeseen bone deficit, making the treatment more time-consuming and complex for instances requiring acetabular restoration and bone grafting. There is a lack of research on the clinical results of THR in cases where acetabular fractures have been overlooked. A 55-year-old male patient presented with a malunited anterior column of the acetabulum, non-union of the posterior column with protrusion, and a significant impaction fracture in the femoral head. He was then treated with open reduction and internal fixation (ORIF) of acetabular columns, along with the use of a reconstruction cage and bone grafting. At the five-year follow-up, the patient had a good outcome. The keys to success include meticulous preoperative planning using radiography and computed tomography (CT) scans, sufficient exposure to define the fracture pattern, and the availability of a full range of devices and backup implants. If there are any prior implants, they should only be removed if they are infected or in the way of cup implantation. However, if there is a significant amount of bone loss, complex fractures may require extensive repair using revision total hip arthroplasty (THA) implants.

Delayed Fixation of Acetabular Fractures Affects Functional Outcomes and Health-Related Quality of Life, Not Just Quality of Reduction

Background

Delayed operative fixation of acetabular fractures remains a major problem in many parts of the world. No previous studies have reported the effect of fixation delay on health-related quality of life (HRQOL). We aimed to investigate the effect of delayed operative fixation of acetabular fractures on health-related quality of life, EuroQol-5 Dimension questionnaire (EQ-5D), and other related outcomes.

Methods

We retrospectively analysed 117 patients who underwent open reduction internal fixation for displaced acetabular fractures between 2014 and 2021. Patients were divided into groups based on the admission-to-surgery time (interval between injury and definitive surgery): 1-14, 15-21, and >21 days. Patients were analysed for associations between admission-to-surgery time and postoperative outcomes, including operative time, estimated blood loss, blood transfusion, postoperative complication, and quality of reduction. Eighty-five patients with a mean follow-up time of 3.94 ± 1.84 years were analysed for the association between admission-to-surgery time and conversion to total hip arthroplasty, the Modified Merle d'Aubigné and Postel score, EQ-5D score, ability to sit cross-legged, and ability to sit squat. Multivariable linear regression was used for continuous outcomes and logistic regression for categorical outcomes associated with delayed operative fixation.

Results

An admission-to-surgery time > 14 days was associated with significantly higher blood loss [785 mL (236-1335), p = 0.006]. For associated fractures, an admission-to-surgery time > 21 days increased the risk of poor reduction [odds ratio (OR), 5.21 (1.42-19.11), p = 0.013]. Further, admission-to-surgery time > 21 days was associated with poor Modified Merle d'Aubigné and Postel scores [OR, 8.46 (1.48-48.29), p = 0.016], EQ-5D pain domain [OR, 3.55 (1.15-11), p = 0.028], and EQ-5D usual activity domain [OR, 4.24 (1.28-14), p = 0.018].

Conclusion

Delayed operative fixation of acetabular fractures after 21 days affected the functional outcomes and HRQOL, independent of the reduction status. Surgical interventions and patient referrals should occur at the earliest and within 21 days from the time of injury.

Supplementary Information

The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1007/s43465-024-01163-x.

Physician Workforce in Kansas: Where are the Orthopedic Surgeons?

Introduction

Rural patients have greater need but less access to orthopedic surgical care than their urban counterparts. Previous studies have investigated rural surgical care, but this is the first to assess the Kansas orthopedic surgery workforce to identify changes over time and rurality and inform thinking about future workforce composition.

Methods

The authors analyzed 2009 and 2019 AMA MasterFile and Area Health Resource File (AHRF) data. Using frequencies, percentages, and calculations of orthopedic surgeons per capita, we assessed workforce changes by rurality (Rural Urban Continuum Codes).

Results

The dataset included 307 orthopedic surgeons; 197 were in both 2009 and 2019. Of these, 165 were in active practice in 2009 and 244 in 2019, an increase of 79 (47.9%). Kansas had smaller proportions of surgeons in rural (non-metro) versus urban (metro) counties in both years. Orthopedic surgeons per capita grew throughout the state, but the increase was smaller in rural counties. There were 11 women orthopedic surgeons in both years, 3.6% of the total 307. Among the 197 surgeons in both years, four (2.0%) were women. No women orthopedic surgeons were in non-metro counties either year.

Conclusions

Although the Kansas orthopedic surgery workforce grew from 2009 to 2019, rural Kansas remains a surgery desert based on orthopedic surgeons per capita. Further studies could determine whether this trend is similar to that in other rural states and how to attract orthopedic surgeons to rural practice.

Clinical results of acetabular fracture treatment with hybrid fixation by anterior and posterior approach : A minimally invasive technique

BACKGROUND

Open reduction and internal fixation have been described as the gold standard for the treatment of acetabular fractures, but the high complications of these surgeries have led surgeons to seek less invasive procedures. In recent years, minimally invasive treatment, such as fixation through the skin have been proposed. The aim was to assess acetabular fracture outcomes of combination of posterior approach (Kocher-Langenbeck [KL]) with anterior percutaneous screw fixation (APSF) with minimally invasive surgery (MIS).

METHODS

Between February 2017 and July 2019, 155 patients with acetabular fractures underwent fixation with the KL + APSF approach. For 1 year functional outcomes, radiographic findings, and postoperative complications were evaluated.

RESULTS

Of 155 patients with a mean age of 40.16 ± 10.32 years, 82 patients were male and 73 were female. The most common pattern of fracture was both columns (32.9%). The average blood loss was approximately 527 ml. The average operation time was 85 min. The mean length of surgical incision was 113.3 mm. Harris' hip score was excellent in 75.5% of cases. The mean VAS score was approximately 4 and 91.6% of patients returned to pre-trauma activity. In 74.8% of cases, the reduction was anatomical. Complications after surgery were very insignificant and included the following: 2 patients had foot drop within 5 months both patients recovered, 2 patients had femoral nerve palsy and 3 cases of deep vein thrombosis and 1 case of pulmonary thromboembolism were treated. There were four patients with surgical site infections, all of whom recovered and two of the seven patients with osteoarthritis underwent total hip arthroplasty.

CONCLUSION

Combining posterior approach with minimally invasive anterior method in fixation and treatment of acetabular fractures is a safe and reliable method and showed significant functional results with minimal complications.

Tricortical iliac crest graft as a salvageable option in the reconstruction of comminuted posterior wall acetabular fractures: our experience from a level 1 trauma centre

BACKGROUND

Comminuted fractures of the posterior acetabular wall, pose a significant challenge in the reduction and fixation of the fracture fragments and usually result in dubious functional outcomes. Primary reconstruction of the severely comminuted posterior wall using the autologous tricortical iliac crest graft has shown promising results, especially in fractures not amenable for anatomical reduction and fixation. Thus, the present study analyses the functional and radiological outcomes of severely comminuted posterior wall acetabular fractures, primarily reconstructed with an autologous tricortical iliac crest graft.

METHODOLOGY

This is a retrospective study, where all cases of comminuted posterior wall acetabulum fractures treated primarily with reconstruction using ipsilateral autologous tricortical iliac crest graft between January 2011 and November 2018 were included. The data of patients were retrieved from the hospital records and all the patients were assessed clinically and radiologically at the final follow-up.

RESULTS

Fourteen patients (ten males and four females) were operated on with a mean operative time of 160 min (range 125 to 190 min) and a mean blood loss of 410 ml (range 320 ml to 830 ml). At 2 years of follow-up, 11 patients (78.57%) had good to excellent functional outcomes based on the modified Merle d'Aubigne and Postel scoring system. The radiological assessment using Matta's criteria indicated excellent outcomes in two patients (14.48%), good in six patients (42.85%), fair in six patients (42.85%).

CONCLUSION

Primary reconstruction of the comminuted posterior wall acetabulum fractures is a potential alternative and salvageable option with favourable outcomes. However, it ought to be considered in severely comminuted fractures where anatomical reduction and internal fixation is not feasible.

Pre-operative predictors of poor reduction in acetabular fractures submitted to surgical treatment

INTRODUCTION

Acetabular fractures are among the most complex orthopedic injuries, and their treatment and understanding have evolved remarkably in the last 50 years. Several factors affect the reduction quality of the surgically treated displaced acetabular fractures. Thus, this study aimed to identify these factors by analyzing patients' data.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

Retrospective data from fractures operated in one center over 8 years were analyzed. Patients with a mature skeleton who underwent open reduction and internal fixation and had a minimum follow-up period of 6 weeks were included. Non-displaced fractures were excluded from the study. Radiographic assessment of the reduction was performed before surgery and at follow-up using the method described by Borelli et al. The effects of age (<40 or >40 years), sex, initial displacement (< 20 mm or > 20 mm), time to surgery (<14 days or>14 days), fracture pattern (elementary or associated), number of associated fractures (< 3 or > 3), and associated pelvic injury were analyzed RESULTS: The study included 115 (83.9%) men and 22 (16.1%) women, with a mean age of 34.1 years (range 16-74 years). In the sixth week of follow-up, reductions were satisfactory in 96 (70.7%) patients and unsatisfactory in 41 (29.3%). The most prevalent patterns were the posterior wall (23.1%) and both column (15.7%). Linear regression showed that residual displacement was directly correlated with initial displacement (p = 0.027) but without association with reduction quality. Age, sex, and initial displacement had no effect on reduction quality, which is in contrast with longer time to surgery (p = 0.004), associated fracture pattern (p = 0.002), three or more associated fractures (p = 0.001), and presence of associated pelvic injury (p = 0.021).

CONCLUSION

Attempting to shorten the time to operate the fractures can lead to better results for patients because the other factors associated with poor reduction are inherent the trauma and cannot be modified by the surgeon.

Sciatic nerve injury after acetabular fractures: a meta-analysis of incidence and outcomes

PURPOSE

To investigate the incidence and the outcome of post-traumatic and iatrogenic sciatic nerve palsy (SNP) associated with fractures of the acetabulum. The results of sciatic nerve grafting for treatment were also investigated.

METHODS

PUBMED, SCOPUS and COCHRANE databases were searched for longitudinal observational studies reporting sciatic nerve palsy related to acetabular fractures in adult patients over the last 20 years. Data regarding patients demographics, type of acetabular fracture, rate of post traumatic and iatrogenic sciatic nerve palsies as well as recovery rate are reported. Studies were assessed for their quality. Random effects meta-analyses were carried out to pool overall proportions of SNP incidence and complete recovery. Variations in SNP incidence by main study characteristics were assessed by subgroup analysis and meta-regression. A narrative review of sciatic nerve grafting was also conducted.

RESULTS

Twenty studies reporting 44 post-operative and 18 iatrogenic SNPs in 651 patients were reviewed. The pooled incidence of posttraumatic SNP was 5.1% (95% CI 2.7-8.2%). The pooled incidence of iatrogenic SNP was 1.4% (95% CI 0.3-2.9%). Complete recovery of post-traumatic and iatrogenic SNP occurred in 64.7% (95% CI 41.7-85.4%) and 74.1% (95% CI 31.5-100%), respectively.

CONCLUSION

A favorable outcome of both post-traumatic and iatrogenic SNP related to acetabular fractures has been found. Due to the poor results of sciatic nerve grafting, a "wait and see" approach may be the best option, in cases of a contused but anatomically intact sciatic nerve.

Incidence and risk factors of preoperative deep venous thrombosis following pelvic and acetabular fractures: a retrospective case–control study

The objective of this study was to investigate the prevalence of preoperative deep venous thrombosis (DVT) in the pelvic cavity and lower extremities following pelvic and acetabular fractures and to identify the risk factors of the occurrence of DVT. Duplex ultrasound (DUS) screening and blood tests were conducted in patients admitted from June 2012 to December 2020 for surgical treatment of pelvic and acetabular fractures. Univariate analyses were performed on data of demographics, comorbidities, time from injury to surgery, injury mechanism, accompanied injury, and laboratory results. The optimal cutoff values of continuous variables with statistical significance were obtained by using the receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve. A multivariate logistic regression analysis was then employed to examine the independent values in terms of predicting preoperative DVT. A total of 607 patients with pelvic and acetabular fractures were included, among whom 82 (13.5%) patients sustained preoperative DVTs. Specifically, 31.7% (26/82) were diagnosed with proximal DVTs. Fifty-two (63.4%) patients had DVT within 7 days after injury, and 67 (81.7%) patients within 10 days. The multivariate logistic regression analysis identified 6 factors independently associated with the presence of preoperative DVT, including age > 46 years (odds ratio [OR] = 2.94), BMI > 26.73 kg/m2 (OR = 3.91), time from injury to surgery > 9 days (OR = 5.39), associated injury (OR = 7.85), ALB < 32.8 g/L (OR = 2.71) and FIB > 3.095 g/L (OR = 3.34). Despite the modern prophylactic regimen, the preoperative DVT in patients with pelvic and acetabular fractures still draws the attention of orthopaedic surgeons. Better understanding these risk factors can help surgeons refine the risk stratification profile and perform early interdisciplinary management for patients at high risk of DVT.

Jig-assisted modified Harrington reconstruction for metastatic bone destruction of the acetabulum

INTRODUCTION

We developed a technique using an indigenously designed jig to assist pin placement in producing a stable and long-lasting construct to augment the acetabulum combined with a cemented hip replacement in cases of metastatic destruction of the acetabulum. We describe our novel modified Harrington technique and retrospectively assess our cohort's clinical outcomes and complications.

METHODS

Between 2006 and 2019, 27 patients with a median age of 69 (49-81) years and a median ASA grade of III (II-IV) were managed using our modified 'Harrington' technique. We assessed outcomes on the following criteria: mechanical complications, post-surgery mobility, and functional outcome using Musculoskeletal Tumour Society Score (MSTS).

RESULTS

At the last follow-up, ten patients were alive with disease [median follow-up of 26 months (12-74)], and 17 patients died of their oncological disease [median follow-up of 15 months (9-22)]. There were no perioperative deaths or intra-operative complications in our series. In total, ten complications were noted in nine patients (33%). Mobility-wise, 13 patients (48%) mobilised unaided, ten patients (37%) required a stick or crutch, two patients (7%) required a frame and two patients (7%) were wheel chair-dependent. The median MSTS score of all patients during their latest follow-up was 18 (8-26).

CONCLUSION

Our jig-aided modified Harrington reconstruction technique assists in safe placement of antegrade pins in acetabulum during surgery and offers a long-lasting solution to these high-risk patients. The use of large diameter pins, appropriate patient selection, and cage used during construction in the acetabulum demonstrated relief of pain, improved mobility, and favorable functional outcomes with minimal complication rates.

Functional Outcome of Surgical Stabilisation of Acetabular Fractures

Introduction:

Approach to the management of displaced acetabular fractures has evolved from conservative to operative management after the work of Judet and Letournel. Various surgical methods have been explored and described by authors to address this type of fracture, leading to improved clinical outcome. This study aimed to evaluate functional outcome of surgically treated displaced acetabular fractures in the Malaysian context.

Materials and methods:

We analysed 43 patients with isolated acetabular fractures who were treated operatively with a minimum of three years follow-up. Anthropometric data, Judet-Letournel fracture pattern, surgical approach and complications were recorded. Post-operative Matta radiological outcome were evaluated for joint congruency and hip functional outcome was evaluated using Merle d’Aubgine-Postel and Harris Hip Score (HHS). All statistical analyses were analysed using SPSS version 24.0.

Results:

The most frequent elementary fracture type was posterior wall (30.2%) while associated type was both columns (23.3%). Mean functional outcome of Merle d'Aubigné-Postel was 15.77 and HHS was 86.6. Thirty-three (76.7%) patients achieved satisfactory functional outcome, 19 (44.1%) patients achieved anatomic reduction (<2 mm step-off) based on Matta classification while 24 (55.8%) did not achieve the desired outcome. Fracture pattern exhibited strong association with post-operative Matta radiological outcome (p-value 0.001). However both fracture pattern and Matta radiological outcome did not exhibit association with the functional outcome group. The mean time for surgical interventions was 10.8 days and there was no significant association with final functional outcome score.

Conclusion:

Fracture pattern is a strong contributing factor towards post-operative Matta radiological outcome. However, achieving the perfect anatomical reduction is not of utmost important factor to predict the good functional outcome.

Outcomes of surgical management regarding acetabular fractures: cases from African countries

BACKGROUND

The management of acetabular fractures, which are severe injuries and often complex, is difficult and costly especially for poor and developing African countries.

AIM

To analyze and evaluate the functional and the radiological outcome of patients with acetabular fracture treated with open reduction and internal fixation.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

It is a retrospective study on 24 patients treated with ORIF and followed up in the Trauma Orthopedic Surgery Department of the Military Hospital of Moulay Ismail of Meknès (MHMIM) between January 2014 and December 2019. The average follow-up duration was 35 months (range: 9-81 months). The functional and radiographic outcomes and complication were considered as the main facts in this study.

RESULTS

Twenty-four patients (male: 18, female: 6) with average age 38 years (range: 16 to 65 years) were operated for acetabular fracture. With Matta criteria use for assessing the radiological outcomes, the anatomical and good reduction was achieved in 79.1% of the patients. The functional results based on the modified Merle d'Aubigne and Postel criteria were judged excellent in 70.83%. Postoperative complications of acetabular fracture such as heterotopic ossification were found in 16%, post-traumatic arthritis in 20%, and avascular necrosis in 12.5% of patients.

CONCLUSION

As there is a strong correlation between anatomic reduction and clinical outcome, the ORIF constitutes an effective method for treatment of displaced acetabular fracture in young aged patients who are considered as the most vulnerable categories in our continent.

Epidemiological assessment of acetabular fractures in a level one trauma centre: A 7-Year observational study

PURPOSE

The present study was conducted to evaluate the epidemiological characteristics of the Acetabular fractures treated in a level one trauma centre of India. This study is one of the largest to provide first-hand information regarding the demography, fracture patterns, other associated injuries, and the hospital stay of acetabular fractures in India.

METHOD

Patients admitted with the diagnosis of acetabular fractures between January 2013 and November 2019 were retrospectively analyzed in terms of demographic data such as age and sex, mechanism of injury, other associated injuries, and the duration of hospital stay.

RESULTS

A total of 305 patients with 313 fractures of the acetabulum were included in the study. Among the 305 patients, 268 (87.8%) were male and 37 (12.1%) were female, with a declining male to female ratio over the years. The mean age was 37.1 ± 13.2 years (range 14-84 years). During the seven years, the mean age of presentation progressively increased. Linear regression showed an increase from 33 to 40 years from 2013 to 2019 (R2 = 0.027). Road traffic injuries were the most common mechanism of injury, contributing to about 77.4% of all cases. Associated injuries were seen in 62% of total cases with multiple system involvement in 26.6% of patients. The most frequent pattern in this epidemiological study was an isolated posterior wall fracture (21.4%) while the isolated anterior wall was the least frequent (0.95%).

CONCLUSION

Acetabular fractures are increasing in numbers and with increasing knowledge so is their surgical management in our country. It shall be prudent to establish an integrated electronic national trauma registry to maintain complete documentation in all institutions dealing with trauma management to ascertain the changing trends of acetabular fracture patterns in the country over time.

Complications in patients of acetabular fractures and the factors affecting the quality of reduction in surgically treated cases

INTRODUCTION

Acetabulum fractures, though relatively uncommon, are associated with significant morbidity and mortality. These involve high energy trauma and due to their complex nature, the management requires understanding the relevant surgical anatomy, defining the injury via appropriate radiographic assessment and determining a suitable treatment plan. Literature is scarce for the demographic data, fracture patterns, associated injuries, management and early complications in the Indian scenario. These factors play a pivotal role in the ultimate recovery of the patients. Therefore this study was conceptualised to assess the epidemiology and evaluate the complications of these fractures. Furthermore the effects of various factors determining the quality of reduction in surgically treated patients were also assessed.

METHODOLOGY

This was a prospective observational study in which patients presenting to the advance trauma centre of our institute with acetabulum fractures were included. Demographical data of the patients, mechanisms of injuries, fractures morphologies, complications and radiological outcomes were recorded prospectively.

RESULTS

116 patients with acetabular fractures were included in the study. 81% of these were males, with average age of 39.95 ± 15.87 years; with road traffic accidents being the predominant mode of injuries. Mortality was reported in 5 patients; 4 patients had deep venous thrombosis and sciatic nerve injuries were seen in 12 patients of which 4 were iatrogenic. 8 patients had some form of infection, out of which 4 required multiple debridements. 4 cases developed heterotrophic ossification while 2 cases had loss of reduction. The timing of surgery and other associated fractures had significant effect on the quality of reduction (p < 0.05); while age, gender, mode of injury or individual fracture patterns had no such effect.

CONCLUSIONS

Proper radiological assessment and evaluation of fracture configuration is important for management of acetabulum fractures. When indicated, this should be followed by early open reduction and internal fixation to achieve anatomical reduction, with management of associated injuries for better outcomes.

Symmetry Matching of the Medial Acetabular Surface-A Quantitative Analysis in View of Patient-Specific Implants

OBJECTIVE

To quantify intrapelvic surface symmetry in reference to a preshaped suprapectineal acetabular implant.

METHODS

In this cross-sectional study, an anatomically preshaped acetabular fracture implant was fitted on 3D surface models of 516 pelvises from a preexisting bone database using a software tool for automated implant fitting (SOMA, Stryker Orthopaedic Modeling and Analytics) of a CAD model of the implant. The distances between bone and the reference implant were measured at 2310 reference points for each hemipelvis.

RESULTS

The average distance between the left hemipelvis and the plate was 1.98 mm (median, 10% percentile: 1.45, 90% percentile: 2.78) and 2.0 mm (median, 10% percentile: 1.45, 90% percentile: 2.92) between the right hemipelvis and the plate. There was no significant difference between the 2 hemipelvises (median absolute pairwise delta: 0.25 mm; 10% percentile: 0.04, 90% percentile: 0.82; Wilcoxon, P = 0.064).

CONCLUSIONS

With regard to the periacetabular surface of the inner pelvis, the pelvis can be considered sufficiently symmetric for using the mirrored contralateral hemipelvis as a template for patient-specific implants in acetabular fracture fixation.

Novel Application of Ultrasonic Bone Aspirator for Hump Nose

OBJECTIVE

This study was conducted to introduce and evaluate the efficacy of an ultrasonic bony aspirator in rhinoplasty for hump removal.

DESIGN

Retrospective study.

SETTING

University medical center.

PATIENTS

Twenty patients who underwent hump removal using an ultrasonic bone aspirator from October 2013 to November 2016 were enrolled in the study.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES

Patients were followed for >3 months after surgery. External nose status and surgical results were investigated using photographs. Postoperative complications were evaluated.

RESULTS

Of the 30 patients enrolled in this study, 11 were females and 19 were males. Preoperative nasal deformities of all patients were characterized as bony humps. Postoperative dorsal status was significantly improved. There were no obvious complications such as over or under correction, delayed healing, infection, soft tissue injury, or deformity of the nasal dorsum.

CONCLUSION

Application of an ultrasonic bone aspirator to remove humps in rhinoplasty is easy, safe, and effective.

Outcome after Surgical Management of Acetabular Fractures: A 7-Year Experience

Objective

To determine the functional and radiologic results of surgical treatment in patients with acetabular fractures.

Methods

This was a retrospective cross-sectional study. We retrospectively reviewed medical records of patients operatively treated acute acetabular fractures at a level I trauma center (Shahid Rajaee) and an orthopedic center (Shahid Chamran) both in southern Iran (Shiraz) with minimally 1 year follow up over a period of 7 years from April 2009 to March 2016. Functional and radiographic outcomes, and complication were considered as main outcomes.

Results

A total number of 79 patients completed the study. Fifty-five patients were operated through Kocher-Langenbeck approach, and 18 were operated through the standard ilioinguinal approach, and 6 patients were operated through the standard ilioinguinal approach combined with Kocher-Langenbeck approach. The mean follow-up of patients was 45.6 months. The average operative time was 162.4±78.5 min, and the median blood loss was 500 ml. Functional results were excellent in 41 patients (51.9%), good in 12 (15.2%), fair in 13 (16.5%), and poor in 13 patients (16.5%). Radiologic results were excellent in 27 cases (34.2%), good in 17 cases (21.5%), fair in 18 cases (22.8%), and poor in 16 (16.5%). Osteoarthritis of hip (60.8%) and AVN of head of femur (22.8%) were two most common complications. In addition, there wasn't any significant difference between surgical approaches regarding clinical and radiographic outcomes.

Conclusion

The operative treatment for acetabular fractures gives universally satisfactory results. Thereafter, this study provides evidence that ilioinguinal approach is a good choice for anterior fractures, Kocher-Langenbeck is a good choice for posteriors fractures, and combined approach may be a good choice in the management of acetabular fractures involving two columns.

Biaxial reduction technique for the medially displaced quadrilateral surface in acetabular fracture through the modified iliofemoral approach: An observational study

Treatment of acetabular fractures is technically demanding injuries. The complex surgical approaches and special equipment have been introduced for achieving accurate anatomical reduction.The aim of the study was to present our experiences of using a newly operative technique to achieve accurate reduction of articular dome impaction and of the quadrilateral surface without special equipment or traction device in reference to fracture reduction and fixation, technical aspects, and the incidence of complications.Five acetabular fractures with involvement of the quadrilateral plate associated anterior column and posterior hemi-transverse fractures were treated with an anatomically curved reconstruction plate and 2 lag screws using a biaxial reduction technique with a modified iliofemoral approach. The impacted quadrilateral plate was reduced without special equipment with accurate reduction of the articular surface by direct digital palpation in an extensive working space.Fracture reduction was assessed by Matta radiographic scoring as anatomic (within 1 mm) or satisfactory reduction (between 1 and 3 mm) in all 5 cases. Functional outcomes, according to the Harris hip score system, were greater than 90 points in all 5 patients. No loss of reduction, joint penetration, or visceral and neurovascular injury was documented at 1-year follow-up.The biaxial reduction technique with a modified iliofemoral approach provides a versatile method for fracture fixation and greater surgical access in medial impacted dome injury with comminuted anterior AC fracture without special equipment or traction device.Observational study, level IV.

Learning Curve for Surgical Treatment of Acetabular Fractures: A Retrospective Clinical Study of a Practical and Theoretical Training Course

Background

Surgical treatment of acetabular fracture and the anatomic reconstruction of the hip joint are difficult to achieve due to the complex pelvic anatomy, and surgical training requires a prolonged and steep learning curve. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effects of an applied training course, including cadaveric dissection, for the surgical treatment of acetabular fractures.

Material/Methods

This retrospective study included 35 patients who underwent surgical treatment for acetabulum fractures between 2012–2016. Patients were divided into three groups during two training courses, for the first two years and second two years. The surgical treatment was performed through single or combined standard approaches, according to the fracture pattern. The radiological outcome was evaluated using Matta’s criteria to grade postoperative reduction and final radiological outcome and the restoration of the hip joint center (HJC). The clinical outcome was evaluated using the modified the Merle d’Aubigné-Postel (DAP) hip score.

Results

Both post-course groups had statistically better functional and radiological outcomes compared with the pre-course group. Depending on the learning curve, the mean duration of surgery decreased from 153 minutes to 82.3 minutes. Although there was no statistical difference between groups in the vertical shift of the HJC, there was a statistically significant in the amount of horizontal shift of the HJC in the second two years of training, compared with the other groups.

Conclusions

Functional and radiological outcome of surgical treatment of acetabular fracture may be improved with increased training, depending on the learning curve.

State of Pelvic and Acetabular Surgery in the Developing World: A Global Survey of Orthopaedic Surgeons at Surgical Implant Generation Network (SIGN) Hospitals

OBJECTIVES

To document the current state of pelvic and acetabular surgery in the developing world and to identify critical areas for improvement in the treatment of these complex injuries.

DESIGN

A 50-question online survey.

SETTING

International, multicenter.

PATIENTS/PARTICIPANTS

One hundred eighty-one orthopaedic surgeons at Surgical Implant Generation Network (SIGN) hospitals, which represent a cross-section of institutions in low- and middle-income countries that treat high-energy musculoskeletal trauma.

INTERVENTIONS

Administration and analysis of 50-question survey.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES

Surgeon training and experience; hospital resources; volume and patterns of pelvic/acetabular fracture management; postoperative protocols and resources for rehabilitation; financial responsibilities for patients with pelvic/acetabular fractures.

RESULTS

Complete surveys were returned by 75 institutions, representing 61.8% of the global SIGN nail volume. Although 96% of respondents were trained in orthopaedic surgery, 53.3% have no formal training in pelvic or acetabular surgery. Emergency access to the operating room is available at all responding sites, but computed tomography scanners are available at only 60% of sites, and a mere 21% of sites have access to angiography for pelvic embolization. Cannulated screws (53.3%) and pelvic reconstruction plates (56%) are available at just over half of the sites, and 68% of sites do not have pelvic reduction clamps and retractors. 21.3% of sites do not have access to intraoperative fluoroscopy. Responding hospitals see an average of 38.8 pelvic ring injuries annually, with 24% of sites treating them all nonoperatively. Sites treated an average of 22.5 acetabular fractures annually, with 34.7% of institutions treating them all nonoperatively. Patients travel up to 1000 km or 20 hours for pelvic/acetabular treatment at some sites. Although 78.7% of sites have inpatient physical or occupational therapy services, only 17% report access to home physical therapy, and only 9% report availability of nursing or rehabilitation facilities postdischarge. At over 80% of hospitals, patients and their families are at least partially responsible for payment of surgical, implant, hospital, and outpatient fees. Government aid is available for inpatient fees at over 40% of sites, but outpatient services are subsidized at only 28% of sites.

CONCLUSIONS

We report the current state of pelvic and acetabular surgery in low- and middle-income countries. Our results identify significant needs in surgeon training, hospital resources, availability of instruments and implants, and access to appropriate postoperative rehabilitation services for pelvic and acetabular surgery in the developing world. Targeted programs designed to overcome these barriers are required to advance the care of pelvic and acetabular fractures in the developing world.

Fucntional and Radiological Outcome of Surgical Management of Acetabular Fractures in Tertiary Care Hospital

PURPOSE

Acetabular fractures are mainly caused by trauma and the incidence is rising in developing countries. Initially these fractures were managed conservatively, due to lack of specialized and dedicated acetabulum surgery centres. Our aim is to study the radiological and functional outcomes of surgical management of acetabular fractures in tertiary care hospital.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Total 50 patients were enrolled. The patients with acetabular fractures were enrolled between the years 2012 to 2014. Patients were evaluated clinically with Harris hip score (HHS) and radiologically with Matta outcome grading. The factors examined include age, gender, fracture pattern, time between injury and surgery, initial displacement and quality of reduction on the final outcome.

RESULTS

There were 34 males and 16 females. Mean age was 44.20±11.65 years while mean duration of stay was 9.28±2.36 days. Duration of follow-up was 24 months. Most common mechanism of injury was motor vehicle accident (n=37, 74.0%). Open reduction and internal fixation of fractures were performed using reconstruction plates. Mean HHS at 24 months was 82.36±8.55. The clinical outcome was acceptable (excellent or good) in 35 (70.0%) cases and not acceptable (fair or poor) in 15 (30.0%) cases. The radiological outcome was anatomical in 39 (78.0%) cases, congruent in 5 (10.0%) cases, incongruent in 6 (12.0%) cases.

CONCLUSION

Study results indicated that mechanism of injury, time between injury and surgery, initial degree of displacement and quality of reduction had significant effect on functional as well as radiological outcome.

Digital anatomical measurements and crucial bending areas of the fixation route along the inferior border of the arcuate line for pelvic and acetabular fractures

Background

Better understanding of three-dimensional (3D) morphology of the pelvis at the area of inferior border of the arcuate line is very important, which could guide the surgeons to treat pelvic and acetabular fractures more efficiently. The objective of this study is to provide references for screw placement and design of anatomical internal fixators for the fixation route along the pelvic inferior border of the arcuate line.

Methods

Seventy five cases of computed tomography (CT) scan data were collected using Medical Image Database in Shanghai General Hospital between December 2009 and November 2010. 44 males and 31 females, aging from 21 to 91 years (average: 57.8 years) were enrolled. Using MIMICS 13.0, these data were used for three dimensional (3D) reconstructions of pelvic model. A curve from the pubic tubercle, along the inferior border of the arcuate line, to the sacroiliac joint was depicted and then divided into 11 equal parts. The measurements of whole length of the curve, the radius of the curvature and the thickness of bone at each decile point were performed, respectively.

Results

The thinnest bone thickness at acetabular area was 17.24 ± 2.90 mm and 9.94 ± 2.69 mm for male and female, respectively. The radius of curvature at the decile points 1, 8 and 10 were smaller compared with the surrounding points.

Conclusions

Using a screw shorter than 10 mm perpendicular to the bone surface along the inferior border of the arcuate line can avoid intra-articular screw penetration. There should be more recontouring of the plate at the areas of pubic tubercle and posterior edge of the acetabulum when placing a fixator along this fixation route. This study provides solid guidance for pelvic and acetabular surgeries as well as designing of anatomical fixators along inferior border fixation route at this area.

Modified Ilioinguinal Approach to Treat Pelvic or Acetabular Fractures: A Retrospective Study

The aim of this study was to evaluate the potential advantages and clinical results of a modified minimally invasive ilioinguinal approach for the treatment of acetabular or pelvic fractures to the results obtained using a standard ilioinguinal approach. Forty-six patients who were diagnosed as having anterior column acetabular fractures or anterior pelvic ring fractures underwent open reduction and internal fixation through 2 different surgical approaches between June 2008 to June 2012 in our trauma center was studied. The modified ilioinguinal group included 20 patients and the other 26 patients were in the standard ilioinguinal approach group. The clinical and radiographic results were recorded and compared between the 2 groups. There were no significant differences between 2 groups in the mean age, sex, fractures type, and causes of acetabular or pelvic fractures. The mean blood loss in the modified group was 560.0 ± 57.3 mL versus 850.0 ± 59.0 mL in the standard ilioinguinal group. The operative time was significantly reduced with modified ilioinguinal approach (86.0 ± 4.56 min vs. 101.9 ± 5.38 min). The mean hospital stay was 16.8 ± 0.58 days and 18.7 ± 0.52 days in the modified and standard ilioinguinal groups, respectively. According to the Matta score, the quality of reduction between the 2 groups was not significantly different. The complication rate was low in the modified group but not significantly different between the 2 groups. Forty-two patients were followed up with clinical examination and radiographs at a mean of 15.2 months. Solid union was observed in 42 cases at a mean time of 14.8 weeks. The mean Harris Hip Score and the Majeed scores at the time of evaluation were not significantly different between the 2 groups. On comparing the 2 surgical ilioinguinal approaches, it was found that using modified ilioinguinal approach decreased operative time and blood loss, and did not affect the quality of fracture reduction and fracture healing. This study demonstrates that the modified ilioinguinal approach is a simple and minimally invasive approach for anterior column acetabular fractures and pubic rami fractures comparing with the standard ilioinguinal approach.

Acetabular fractures labelled poor surgical choices: Analysis of operative outcome

PURPOSE

We report the surgical outcome in 52 patients with acetabular otherwise considered as poor surgical choices.

METHODS

43 male and 9 female patients were operated at a mean age of 43 years and followed up for a mean duration of 60.3 months. There were 22 elementary fractures and 31 associated ones according to Letournal and Judet classification. Osteosynthesis was attempted in 48 patients whereas a primary total hip arthroplasty was performed in 4 patients. Outcome was assessed radiologically and functionally employing Harris Hip Score (HHS).

RESULTS

Average HHS in osteosynthesis group was 82.56 ± 12.4 with excellent to good results in 59.6% of the cases. Symptomatic osteoarthritis occurred in 13.5% of cases, avascular necrosis and severe heterotopic ossification in 7.7% each, infection and nerve palsy in 11.5% each.

CONCLUSION

Although the complication rates in this series is marginally more than that reported in literature, we recommend that the indications of surgical fixation in acetabular fractures need to be extended to those which were considered poor surgical choices.

Newly modified Stoppa approach for acetabular fractures

PURPOSE

We present our experience of using a newly modified Stoppa approach combined with a lateral approach to the iliac crest in patients with acetabular fractures in reference to fracture reduction and fixation, technical aspects, and the incidence of complications.

METHODS

We used a consecutive group of 29 adult patients with acetabular fractures treated operatively with a newly modified Stoppa approach between 2009 and 2011. The newly modified Stoppa approach was performed to fix the acetabular fractures with main anterior displacement and the anterior and lateral parts of the pelvis. This approach was combined with a lateral approach on the iliac crest for fractures of the iliac wing.

RESULTS

All the patients were followed up for at least 1.5 years. Of the 29 patients, ten anterior column, two associated both column, seven anterior column with posterior hemi-transverse, four transverse, and six T-type fractures. The average blood loss was 950 mL, and average operative time was 155 minutes. Anatomic or satisfactory reduction was achieved in 96 % of the acetabular fractures. Two patients had mild symptoms of the lateral femoral cutaneous nerve and improved within three months.

CONCLUSIONS

The newly modified Stoppa approach provides excellent visualization to the anterior column, quadrilateral surface and permits good postoperative results for treatment of acetabular fractures. We considered this technique as a viable alternative for the ilioinguinal approach when exposure of the anterior acetabulum is needed.

Acetabular fracture: long-term follow-up and factors associated with secondary implantation of total hip arthroplasty

HYPOTHESIS

The present study sought to determine long-term outcome in acetabular fracture and the factors associated with secondary implantation of a total hip arthroplasty and/or with poor functional results.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

Seventy-two patients admitted between 2000 and 2005 were followed up for a maximum 11 years (mean, 6.8 years): 16 females, 56 males; mean age at injury, 41.6 years (median, 40 years). There were 45 simple acetabular fractures, 27 complex fractures and 27 dislocations. Late complications were: osteoarthritis (n=29), osteonecrosis of the femoral head (ONFH: n=8) and heterotopic ossification (n=2).

RESULTS AND DISCUSSION

Twenty-five total hip arthroplasties (THA) were performed, with a mean time to surgery of 3.7 years. Associated factors for THA were: VAS (P<0.0001), PMA (P<0.0001), osteoarthritis (P<0.0001), ONFH (P<0.0002), initial dislocation (P=0.0002), no functional treatment (P=0.0014), surgical treatment (P=0.0065), initial traction (P=0.0068), anterior and posterior congruency defect (P=0.0072 and P<0.0001), and initial intra-articular foreign body (P=0.045). Factors associated with poor or bad functional results were the same, plus: etiology (P=0.0021), BMI (P=0.03) and posterior wall fracture (P=0.0325).

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

4; retrospective study.

Superior border of the arcuate line: Three dimension reconstruction and digital measurements of the fixation route for pelvic and acetabular fractures

PURPOSE

To obtain a series of parameters describing the shape and bone thickness of the fixation route along the superior border of the arcuate line, so as to provide references for pelvic and acetabular surgery and design pelvic anatomic internal fixators.

METHOD

A total of 175 complete pelvic computed tomography (CT) scans of normal adult pelvises were collected. Each person's CT scans were reconstructed to create a three-dimensional pelvic model. A curve of the fixation route was delineated and divided into 11 equal parts. The total length of the curve, the radius of curvature, and the bone thickness at each decile point were all measured. The position of the pelvic inlet, the anterior and posterior sagittal diameter were measured.

RESULTS

The radius of curvature at each decile point were 29.18 ± 15.53, 55.27 ± 29.48, 43.04 ± 14.42, 59.62 ± 21.02, 91.67 ± 52.01, 78.9 ± 38.66, 75.76 ± 25.87, 61.75 ± 16.68, 54.62 ± 14.88, and 43.61 ± 19.10 mm, respectively. The anterior and posterior sagittal diameter of the pelvic inlet was 66.01 ± 9.15 and 41.36 ± 8.19 mm, respectively. For all groups divided by the ratio of the posterior and the anterior sagittal diameter, the decile points 1, 3, and 10 had smaller radii of curvature than the before and after points, respectively.

CONCLUSIONS

The curve of the fixation route along superior border of arcuate line has a relatively greater bending degree at the pubic tubercle, iliopubic eminence and close to the sacroiliac joint. With the transition of the pelvic inlet shape from android to gynecoid and platypelloid type, the bone surface at the iliopubic eminence becomes flatter. Pelvic and acetabular surgery could be more accurate by referring to the previous key bending points and the change of the pelvic inlet shape.

A safe technique of anterior column lag screw fixation in acetabular fractures

PURPOSE

Conventional anterior column lag screw fixation in acetabular fracture is a difficult technique that has potential risks of vascular injury, hip joint penetration and excessive radiation exposure. We propose a safe technique of anterior column lag screw fixation (in-out-in technique) and present the outcome.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Twenty-seven acetabular fractures were operated through an iliofemoral approach, where the 'in-out-in technique' of lag screw fixation was a part of the surgical procedure. The technique involved insertion of a malleolar screw (4.5 mm) or 6.5 mm partially threaded cancellous screw from the outer side of the iliac wing, 0.5-1 cm posterior and inferior to the anteroinferior iliac spine. The screw comes out of the bone surface to re-enter into the anterior part of iliopectineal eminence, and finally gains purchase in the lateral part of superior pubic ramus. The screw fixation procedure was under direct visualization without resorting to an image intensifier. The average follow-up of the patients was at 18.6 months (range 12-36 months).

RESULTS

No loss of reduction, joint penetration or visceral and neurovascular injury were documented. The average duration of surgery was 70 min and blood loss was 290 ml. All fractures were united after an average period of 2.8 months. Excellent to good functional outcome was observed in 24 patients (88 %), on evaluation with Merle D'Aubigne and Postel score at the latest follow-up.

CONCLUSION

We conclude that the 'in-out-in technique' is a safe and effective method of anterior column lag screw fixation in acetabular fractures. It provides rigid stability and minimizes surgical duration, radiation exposure and intra-operative complications.

Posterior wall reconstruction using iliac crest strut graft in severely comminuted posterior acetabular wall fracture

Osteosynthesis of comminuted posterior acetabular wall fractures is a challenging task for surgeons. We report a series of eight cases of such fractures where the comminuted fragments were excised and the defect in the posterior acetabular wall was reconstructed with iliac crest strut graft. The graft was buttressed with a reconstruction plate on its posterior aspect. The patients were followed up every week until radiological signs of union were seen. Subsequent follow-up was after six months, one year and annually. Patients were evaluated clinically by Merle d'Aubigne and Postel score and radiologically by Matta score at their final follow-up. All fractures united radiologically after an average follow-up of 3.2 months. The clinical outcome after mean follow-up of 3.34 years (minimum two years and maximum five years) was as follows: two (25%) were excellent, two (25%) were very good, three (37.5%) were good and one (12.5%) was fair. Radiological grading at last follow-up showed excellent in one (12.5%), good in four (50%) and fair in three (37.5%) patients. No complication in the form of infection, heterotopic ossification, neurovascular injury or graft resorption was noticed. To conclude, excision of the small comminuted fragments and reconstruction of the wall using iliac crest strut graft is a viable alternative technique for reconstruction of the comminuted posterior acetabular wall fracture. The medium-term clinical and radiological results of this technique are satisfactory.

Risk of postoperative venous thromboembolism in Indian patients sustaining pelvi-acetabular injury

Most surgeons believe that Asians have a low risk of developing venous thromboembolism (VTE) and routine thromboprophylaxis therapy is not required after major orthopaedic trauma. This study evaluates the postoperative risk of VTE in Indian patients sustaining pelvi-acetabular injury. Fifty-six patients with pelvi-acetabular injury, who underwent open reduction and internal fixation, were prospectively evaluated for VTE in the postoperative period. They were evaluated, both clinically and radiologically (pulmonary CT angiography and indirect venography of lower limb and pelvis veins), until six weeks after surgery. A total of 16 patients developed VTE, of which 12 had proximal deep vein thrombosis (DVT), ten had pulmonary embolism (PE) and only two had distal DVT. Six patients with proximal DVT had associated PE. The risk of development of VTE among Indian patients after pelvi-acetabular injury is high (28.6%) with increasing chances of proximal DVT and PE; hence, administration of routine thromboprophylaxis is fully justified in them.