Simultaneous open reduction and internal fixation and total hip arthroplasty for the treatment of osteoporotic acetabular fractures

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

BACKGROUND

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.

METHODS

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 1700 N, 1 Hz). Primary stability of the acetabular cup and fracture gap was evaluated by 3-dimensional (3D) micromotions.

RESULTS

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 ± 21.08 μm vs. CP 224.83 ± 52.29 μm, p < 0.001; CSPA 45.50 ± 12.16 μm vs. CP 224.83 ± 52.29 μm, 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.

CONCLUSION

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.

Combined Hip Procedure in a 74-Year-Old Patient with Acetabulum Fracture

In elderly individuals, low-energy trauma can cause acetabular fractures. Many surgical options have been described, including open reduction and internal fixation (ORIF), arthroplasty, and combined hip procedure. We present a 74-year-old man with a fall-related acetabular fracture with an unusual pattern, which was managed by ORIF and total hip arthroplasty. The patient experienced a hip dislocation at three weeks post-operation that was reduced in the emergency department. At 12 months post-operation, the patient resumed the same level of function he had before falling, using a cane while outside his home and sometimes inside. The combined hip procedure is associated with early weight bearing and excellent Harris hip scores, but proper preoperative planning and patient optimization are needed.

Rising incidence of acute total hip arthroplasty for primary and adjunctive treatment of acetabular fracture in older and middle-aged adults

BACKGROUND

Acute total hip arthroplasty (THA) may be an alternative or an adjuvant to internal fixation for surgical treatment of acetabular fractures. We investigate recent trends in the operative management of acetabular fractures. We hypothesize that the incidence of acute THA for acetabular fractures has increased over time.

METHODS

4569 middle-aged (45-64 years) and older adults (≥ 65 years) who received acute operative management of an acetabular fracture within 3 weeks of admission between 2010 and 2020 were identified from the United States Nationwide Inpatient Sample database. Treatment was classified as open reduction internal fixation (ORIF), THA, or combined ORIF and THA (ORIF + THA). Patients were stratified by age ≥ 65 years old. Associations between demographic factors and the incidence of each procedure over the study period were modeled using linear regression.

RESULTS

The relative incidence of treatments was 80.9% ORIF, 12.1% THA, and 7.0% ORIF + THA. Among patients aged 45-64 years old, THA increased 4.8% [R² = 0.62; β₁ = 0.6% (95% Confidence Interval (CI) 0.2-0.9%)] and ORIF + THA increased 2.6% [R² = 0.73; β₁ = 0.3% (95% CI 0.2-0.4%)], while the use of ORIF decreased 7.4% [R² = 0.75; β₁ = -0.9% (95% CI -1.2 to -0.5%)]. Among patients ≥ 65 years old, THA increased 16.5% [R² = 0.87; β₁ = 1.7% (95% CI 1.2-2.2%)] and ORIF + THA increased 5.0% [R² = 0.38, β₁ = 0.6% (95% CI 0.0-1.3%)], while ORIF decreased 21.5% [R² = 0.75; β₁ = -2.4% (95% CI -3.45 to -1.3%)].

CONCLUSION

The treatment of acetabular fractures with acute THA has increased in the last decade, particularly among older adults.

Mid-term functional and radiological outcomes after total hip replacement performed for complications of acetabular fractures

OBJECTIVE

Acetabular fractures can lead to serious complications such as avascular necrosis of the femoral head (AVN), osteoarthritis, non-union. Total hip replacement (THR) is a treatment option for these complications. The purpose of this study was to assess the functional and radiological outcomes of THR at least 5 years after the primary implantation.

METHODS

This retrospective study analysed clinical data from 77 patients (59 males, 18 females) who were treated from 2001 to 2022. Data was collected on the incidence of AVN of the femoral head, complications, interval from fracture to THR, reimplantation. The modified Harris Hip Score (MHHS) was used to evaluate outcome.

RESULTS

The mean age at the time of fracture was 48 years. Avascular necrosis developed in 56 patients (73%), with 3 cases of non-union. Osteoarthritis without AVN developed in 20 patients (26%), non-union without AVN in one patient (1%). The mean time from fracture to THR was 24 months for AVN with non-union, 23 months for AVN alone, 22 months for AVN with arthritis, 49 months for hip osteoarthritis without AVN. The time interval was significantly shorter for cases of AVN than for cases of osteoarthritis without AVN (p = 0.0074). Type C1 acetabular fracture was found to be a risk factor for femoral head AVN (p = 0.0053). Common complications of acetabular fractures included post-traumatic sciatic nerve paresis (17%), deep venous thrombosis (4%), infections (4%). Hip dislocation was the most common complication of THR (17%). There were no cases of thrombosis following THR. According to Kaplan-Meier analysis, the proportion of patients without revision surgery within 10-year period was 87.4% (95% CI 86.7-88.1). The results of the MHHS after THR: 59.3% of patients had excellent results, 7.4% good, 9.3% satisfactory results, and 24.0% had poor results. The mean MHHS was 84 points (95% CI 78.5-89.5). Paraarticular ossifications were observed in 69.4% of patients in the radiological evaluation.

CONCLUSION

Total hip replacement is an effective treatment for serious complications of acetabular fracture treatment. Its results are comparable to THR peformed for other indications, although it is associated with a higher number of paraarticular ossifications. Type C1 acetabular fracture was found to be a significant risk factor for early femoral head AVN.

Risk of Revision and Complications after Total Hip Arthroplasty for Acute Treatment of Acetabular Fracture

BACKGROUND

Total hip arthroplasty (THA) for the treatment of acute acetabular fractures may be indicated where there is high risk for failure of open reduction and internal fixation. This study aimed to determine risks of revision and rates of major complications of THA for acute acetabular fractures.

METHODS

A retrospective review was performed (all-claims data files of a large national database) by querying International Classification of Disease, tenth revision procedure codes for THA within 14 days of acetabular fracture. We identified all-cause revision and surgical complications including dislocations, mechanical failures (loosenings or broken prostheses), infections, as well as medical complications. Demographic data collected included age, sex, obesity and Charlson Comorbidity Index (CCI). Multivariate analyses evaluated the association of revision and major surgical complications after adjusting for demographic characteristics and comorbidities. We identified 956 THAs for the treatment of acute acetabular fracture from 2015 to 2020. Of all acute acetabular fractures treated with THA, 241 were concomitant with ORIF, and 715 were THA alone.

RESULTS

All-cause revision risk was 18.2%, overall major surgical complication rate 26.9%, and medical complication rate was 13.2%. Women were associated with increased risk of revision (adjusted Odds Ratio (aOR) 1.8; Confidence Interval (CI) 1.3-2.6, P=0.001), dislocation (aOR 2.0; CI 1.5-3.1, P<0.001), mechanical complication (aOR 2.1; CI 1.4-3.2, P<0.001), and infection (aOR 1.6; CI 1.0-2.5, P=0.044).

CONCLUSION

We noted risk of all-cause revision of 18.2%, overall major surgical complication rate of 26.9%, and overall major medical complication rate of 13.2% for THA as the treatment of acute acetabular fracture. We caution against broad expansion of THA for treatment of acute acetabular fractures. Furthermore, increased risks of revision and complications in women warrant additional investigation into patient and fracture characteristics that may contribute to this finding.

Current indications for acute total hip arthroplasty in older patients with acetabular fracture: Evidence in 601 patients from 2002 to 2021

Purpose

Older patient population with acetabular fractures is increasing rapidly, requiring enhanced recovery. Acute total hip arthroplasty (THA) is a good option for these patients, and it is becoming increasing popular. However, acute THA has different indications in different studies. Therefore, a systematic review is needed to assess and comprehend the indications for acute THA in older patients.

Methods

A systematic literature review was conducted to identify a retrospective series or prospective studies in older patients (>60 years) with acetabular fractures. The search timeline was from database construction till December 2021; PubMed, Embase, and Cochrane Library databases were searched. Two trained professional reviewers independently read the full text of documents that met the inclusion criteria and extracted information on the specific methods used and indication information based on the research design.

Results

In total, there were 601 patients with acetabular fractures aged >60 years from 33 studies were obtained. Twenty-eight studies reported that THA was a feasible treatment option for acetabular fractures in geriatric patients with good outcome. The primary indications were dome impaction, irreducible articular comminution, femoral head injury, and pre-existing osteoarthritis or avascular necrosis. The most common patterns were anterior column and posterior hemitransverse, posterior wall, both columns, and T-type.

Conclusion

Acute THA is an effective treatment strategy for older patients with acetabular fractures and should be considered when the abovementioned indications are observed on preoperative images. (PROSPERO: CRD42022329555).

Total hip arthroplasty after acetabular fractures in the older population: timing of intervention may improve patient outcomes

PURPOSE

This study evaluates complication rates following treatment modalities of THA for acetabular fractures in the older population.

METHODS

A national insurance database was used to identify acetabular fracture patients of age > 50 who underwent THA treatment within two years of fracture. Four subgroups were identified: primary THA < 2 months after injury (acute THA), primary THA > 2 months after injury (delayed THA), simultaneous ORIF and THA, and conversion THA after ORIF (THA after ORIF). A 3:1 match was performed between these subgroups and patients undergoing THA for non-fracture causes. Patients were matched based on age, gender and the diagnosis of diabetes, hypertension, obesity or tobacco use. Complication rates were compared, including hospital readmission, revision, infection and deep vein thrombosis (DVT).

RESULTS

In total, 3807 patients met inclusion criteria and were matched with 11,421 controls. Compared to controls, acute THA and delayed THA patients had significantly increased rates of all complications (OR ranges 1.45 - 2.82, p < 0.001). Simultaneous ORIF and THA and THA after ORIF patients had significantly increased rates of revision, infection and DVT (OR ranges 1.76 - 3.96, p ranges < 0.001 - p = 0.031). Compared to delayed THA, acute THA patients had significantly higher rates of readmission (OR = 1.16, p = 0.021) and DVT (OR = 1.89, p < 0.001).

CONCLUSION

Consistent with prior literature, THA after acetabular fracture is associated with higher complication rates than THA for non-fracture causes. Acute THA following acetabular fracture is also associated with higher rates of readmission and DVT than delayed THA.

The acetabular roof reinforcement plate for the treatment of displaced acetabular fractures in the elderly: results in 59 patients

INTRODUCTION

Open reduction and internal fixation is considered the gold standard of treatment for displaced acetabular fractures in younger patients. For elderly patients with osteoporotic bone quality, however, primary total hip arthroplasty (THA) with the advantage of immediate postoperative mobilization might be an option. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the clinical and radiological outcomes of surgical treatment of displaced osteoporotic acetabular fractures using the acetabular roof reinforcement plate (ARRP) combined with THA.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Between 2009 and 2019, 84 patients were operated using the ARRP combined with THA. Inclusion criteria were displaced osteoporotic fractures of the acetabulum with or without previous hemi- or total hip arthroplasty, age above 65 years, and pre-injury ability to walk at least with use of a walking frame. Of the 84 patients, 59 could be followed up after 6 months clinically and radiographically. Forty-nine (83%) were primary fractures and 10 (17%) periprosthetic acetabular fractures.

RESULTS

The mean age was 80.5 years (range 65-98 years). The average time from injury to surgery was 8.5 days (range 1-28). Mean time of surgery was 167 min (range 100-303 min). Immediate postoperative full weight bearing (FWB) was allowed for 51 patients (86%). At the 6-month follow-up, all 59 patients except one showed bony healing and incorporation of the ARRP. One case developed a non-union of the anterior column. No disruption, breakage or loosening of the ARRP was seen. Additional CT scans performed in 18 patients confirmed bony healing. Twenty-six patients (44%) had regained their pre-injury level of mobility. Complications requiring revision surgery occurred in 8 patients. Five of them were suffering from a prosthetic head dislocation, one from infection, one from hematoma and one from a heterotopic ossification.

CONCLUSIONS

The ARRP has proven to provide sufficient primary stability to allow for immediate FWB in most cases and represents a valuable option for the surgical management of displaced acetabular fractures in this challenging patient group.

Modified Stoppa Approach for the Treatment of Complex Acetabular Fractures

Complex acetabular fractures are due to high-energy trauma in most cases. The operative management of these types of fractures is often difficult and technically challenging. Almost all of these types of fractures are treated through extensile approaches, and a variety of them have been described. Some of these approaches are associated with complications such as infection, heterotopic ossification, and increased blood loss in addition to increased operative time. This retrospective study was performed at an academic Level I trauma center. From January 2013 to March 2019, 21 patients with complex acetabular fractures were treated with open reduction and internal fixation through a single anterior modified Stoppa approach. The average operative time was 98.80 minutes (range, 60-180 minutes), the average follow-up time was 40 months (range, 24-72 months), and the average Harris Hip Score (HHS) was 87.85 (range, 75-100). At the latest follow-up, 12 (57.1%) patients had an excellent HHS, 8 (38.1%) patients had a good HHS, and 1 (4.8%) patient had a fair HHS. Complex acetabular fractures can be effectively managed by a modified Stoppa approach without the need for extensile or combined approaches. [Orthopedics. 2021;44(3):e353-e358.].

Predictor variables in acetabular fractures surgically treated

INTRODUCTION

Up to 25% of acetabular fractures have poor functional outcomes in short-term follow-up. The aim of our study is to analyze predictors related to poor outcome in surgically treated acetabular fractures. Damage to the femoral head cartilage and poor fracture reduction has been reported as predictors to total hip arthroplasty (THA).

MATERIAL AND METHODS

retrospective study of 207 consecutive patients with acetabular fractures, over a fourteen-year period. Demographic data, fracture pattern according to AO/OTA, complications related to surgery and predictor variables were analyzed.

RESULTS

Analyzing predictor variables, we observed seagull sign, femoral head dislocation, femoral osteochondral damage, acetabular marginal impaction, poor acetabular roof congruency after surgery (p < 0.001) and postoperative fracture congruence (>3mm) (p < 0.023) statistically related to the need of a THA during follow-up. Age (p = 0,98), Sex(p = 0,27), AO-OTA classification (p = 0,10), type of dislocation (p = 0,25), surgical approach (p = 0,57), time to surgery (p = 0,66) and posterior wall involvement (p = 0,06) were not related to THA. Most frequent complication was nerve injury, affecting 22 patients (20.18%). Only seventeen patients (15.6%) needed a THA at an average time of 6 years after initial open reduction and internal fixation.

CONCLUSION

Femoral head damage and dislocation, fracture reduction, and seagull sign were the strongest predictors related to THA after surgical treatment of acetabular fractures.

Treatment modalities and outcomes following acetabular fractures in the elderly: a systematic review

PURPOSE

The treatment of geriatric acetabular fractures remains controversial. Treatment options include nonoperative management, open reduction and internal fixation (ORIF), total hip arthroplasty (THA) with or without internal fixation, and closed reduction with percutaneous pinning (CRPP). There is currently no consensus on the optimal treatment strategy for geriatric patients with acetabular fractures. The purpose of this study is to compare adverse event rates, functional and radiographic outcomes, and intraoperative results between the various treatment modalities in order to help guide surgical decision making.

METHODS

We performed a systematic review (registration number CRD42019124624) of observational and comparative studies including patients aged ≥ 55 with acetabular fractures.

RESULTS

Thirty-eight studies including 3,928 patients with a mean age of 72.6 years (range 55-99 years) and a mean follow-up duration of 29.4 months met our eligibility criteria. The pooled mortality rate of all patients was 21.6% (95% confidence interval [CI] 20.9-22.4%) with a mean time to mortality of 12.6 months, and the pooled non-fatal complication rate was 24.7% (95% CI 23.9-25.5%). Patients treated with ORIF had a significantly higher non-fatal complication rate than those treated with ORIF + THA, THA alone, CRPP, or nonoperative management (odds ratios [ORs] 1.87, 2.24, 2.15, and 4.48, respectively; p < 0.01). Patients that underwent ORIF were significantly less likely to undergo subsequent THA than these treated with CRPP (OR 0.49, 95% CI 0.32-0.77) but were more likely to require THA than patients treated nonoperatively (OR 6.81, 95% CI 4.63-10.02).

CONCLUSION

Elderly patients with acetabular fractures tend to have favorable functional outcomes but suffer from high rates of mortality and complications. In patients treated with internal or percutaneous fixation, there was a high rate of conversion to THA. When determining surgical treatment in this population, THA alone or concurrent with ORIF should be considered given the significantly lower rate of non-fatal complications and similar mortality rate. Nonoperative management remains a viable option and was associated with the lowest non-fatal complication rate.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

This journal requires that authors assign a level of evidence to each submission to which Evidence-Based Medicine rankings are applicable. This excludes Review Articles, Book Reviews, and manuscripts that concern Basic Science, Animal Studies, Cadaver Studies, and Experimental Studies. For a full description of these Evidence-Based Medicine ratings, please refer to the Table of Contents or the online Instructions to Authors www.springer.com/00266 .

Outcomes of Total Hip Arthroplasty After Acetabular Open Reduction and Internal Fixation in the Elderly-Acute vs Delayed Total Hip Arthroplasty

BACKGROUND

Optimum management for the elderly acetabular fracture remains undefined. Open reduction and internal fixation (ORIF) in this population does not allow early weight-bearing and has an increased risk of failure. This study aimed to define outcomes of total hip arthroplasty (THA) in the setting of an acetabular fracture and compared delayed THA after acetabular ORIF (ORIF delayed THA) and acute fixation and THA (ORIF acute THA).

METHODS

All acetabular fractures in patients older than 60 years who underwent ORIF between 2007 and 2018 were reviewed (n = 85). Of those, 14 underwent ORIF only initially and required subsequent THA (ORIF delayed THA). Twelve underwent an acute THA at the time of the ORIF (ORIF acute THA). The ORIF acute THA group was older (81 ± 7 vs 76 ± 8; P < .01) but had no other demographic- or injury-related differences compared with the ORIF delayed THA group. Outcome measures included operative time, length of stay, complications, radiographic assessments (component orientation, leg-length discrepancy, heterotopic ossification), and functional outcomes using the Oxford Hip Score (OHS).

RESULTS

Operative time (P = .1) and length of stay (P = .5) for the initial surgical procedure (ORIF only or ORIF THA) were not different between groups. Four patients had a complication and required further surgeries; no difference was seen between groups. Radiographic assessments were similar between groups. The ORIF acute THA group had a significantly better OHS (40.1 ± 3.9) than the ORIF delayed THA group (33.6 ± 8.5) (P = .03).

CONCLUSION

In elderly acetabulum fractures, ORIF acute THA compared favorably (a better OHS, single operation/hospital visit, equivalent complications) with ORIF delayed THA. We would thus recommend that in patients with risk factors for failure requiring delayed THA (eg, dome or roof impaction) that ORIF acute THA be strongly considered.

Cementless hip revision cup for the primary fixation of osteoporotic acetabular fractures in geriatric patients

BACKGROUND

Elderly patients suffering from hip fractures are usually not able to fulfil postoperative weight-bearing restrictions. Therefore, the operative fixation construct has to be as stable as possible. Aim of the present study was to determine (1) whether a therapeutic advantage could be achieved when using hip arthroplasty to treat acetabular fractures in geriatric patients; (2) whether an acetabular revision cup would be suitable for achieving fast postoperative mobilization and full weight-bearing; and (3) when a treatment with an uncemented hip revision cup for the primary fixation of osteoporotic acetabular fractures in geriatric patients is indicated.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The functional outcome of THA using a reconstruction cup for an acetabular fracture was evaluated in ten patients using standardized scoring instruments. In addition, an analysis of the preexisting literature referring to total hip replacement in geriatric acetabular fractures was conducted and an algorithm for standardizing the treatment approach for geriatric patients with acetabular fractures was developed.

RESULTS

The mean EQ-5D-3L quality of life score 0.7. The mean VAS Score was 58.2. The average Barthel Index was 80.0 points [range: 0-100]. The mean HHS was 72.0 points, while the MHH Score yielded an average of 63.4 points. The average AP Score was 7.5. The literature analysis showed that total hip arthroplasty could be a feasible option for geriatric acetabular fractures.

CONCLUSION

Primary hip arthroplasty using uncemented revision cup fixed with angular stable screws showed good results and is a feasible treatment option of acetabular fractures in geriatric patients. The approach is especially beneficial in patients with poor bone stock and allows postoperative full weight-bearing. The presented treatment algorithm could be a useful tool for identifying the most appropriate treatment option.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

IIb.

Medial buttressing of the quadrilateral surface in acetabular and periprosthetic acetabular fractures

Background

In geriatric acetabular fractures, the quadrilateral plate is often involved in the fracture pattern and medially displaced. Open reduction and internal fixation (ORIF) includes reduction of the quadrilateral plate and securing its position. In this study, the concept of medial buttressing in acute and periprosthetic acetabular fractures is evaluated.

Materials and methods

Patients, who sustained an acetabular fracture between 2012 and 2018, in whom ORIF with a specific implant for medial buttressing was performed, were included in the study. Patients were divided in two groups; acute acetabular fractures (group 1) and periprosthetic acetabular fractures (group 2). Demographics, type of fracture, surgical approach, type of implant for medial buttressing, comorbidities, general and surgical in-hospital complications and length of hospital stay were recorded retrospectively. The following data were collected from the surviving patients by telephone interview: EQ-5D-5L, SF-8 physical and SF-8 mental before trauma and at follow-up, UCLA activity scale, Parker Mobility Score and Numeric Rating Scale.

Results

Forty-six patients were included in this study, 30 males (65.2%) and 16 females (34.8%). Forty patients were included group 1 and six patients in group 2. The median age of patients of group 1 was 78 years. Among them, 82.5% presented with comorbidities. Their median length of in-hospital stay was 20.5 days. 57.5% of patients suffered from in-hospital complications. The concept of medial buttressing was successful in all but one patient. ORIF together with primary total hip arthroplasty (THA) was carried out as a single stage procedure in 3 patients. Secondary THA was performed in 5 additional patients (5/37 = 13.5%) within the observation period. Among surviving patients, 79.2% were evaluated after 3 years of follow-up. Quality of life, activity level and mobility dropped importantly and were lower than the values of a German reference population. SF-8 mental did not change. The median age of patients of group 2 was 79.5 years, all of them presented with one or several comorbidities. The median length of in-hospital stay was 18.5 days. 50% of patients suffered from in-hospital complications. The concept of medial buttressing was successful in all patients. 5 of 6 patients (83.3%) could be evaluated after a median of 136 weeks. In none of these patients, secondary surgery was necessary. Quality of life, activity level and mobility importantly dropped as well in this group. SF-8 mental remained unchanged.

Conclusion

In geriatric acetabular fractures with involvement and medial displacement of the quadrilateral plate, medial buttressing as part of ORIF proved to be reliable. Only 13.5% of patients of group 1 needed a secondary THA within 3 years of follow-up, which is lower than in comparable studies. Despite successful surgery, quality of life, activity level and mobility dropped importantly in all patients. The loss of independence did however not influence SF-8 mental values.

Acetabulum fractures in elderly: A systematic review of fracture pattern and treatment

PURPOSE

Acetabulum fractures are being increasingly seen with low impact injuries in elderly patients. This article aimed to study systematically literature on geriatric acetabulum fractures. Objectives of this systematic review were to study (1) demography of patients, common mechanisms of injury and types of fracture patterns commonly seen in elderly patients, (2) treatment used for these fractures in literature and (3) mortality rates in elderly with these fractures.

METHODS

Systematic search was carried out in May 2020 using predefined search strategy for all studies published in the English language in last 20 years. Literature search and data abstraction was done by two independent reviewers.

RESULTS

After screening of all abstracts, a total of 48 studies were included in the systematic review. In total there were 7876 geriatric patients with acetabulum fractures. Mean age of the patients was 72.47 years. There were 4841 males (61.5%). Fall from low heights was the most common mechanism of injury, present in 47.12% patients followed by motor vehicular accidents in 28.73%. Most common fracture pattern was both column fracture, seen in 19.03% patients, followed by anterior column and posterior hemitransverse fracture in 17.23%, anterior column fractures in 17.13%, and posterior wall fractures in 13.46% patients. Out of total 5160 patients for whom details of treatment were available, 2199 (42.62%) were given non-operative treatment, 2285 (44.28%) were treated with ORIF of acetabulum fracture, 161 (3.12%) were treated with percutaneous fixation and 515 (9.98%) were treated with primary THA. Gull sign, femoral head injury and posterior wall comminution were associated with poorer prognosis after ORIF and may form an indication for a primary THA.

CONCLUSION

Literature on treatment of geriatric acetabulum fractures is not enough to draw any definite conclusions. There is limited evidence from current literature that surgery could be considered a safe treatment option for displaced acetabulum fractures in elderly. Primary THA can provide early mobility and reduce chances of resurgery in fracture patterns where restoration of joint surface may not be possible.

Does use of a quadrilateral surface plate improve outcome in elderly acetabular fractures?

BACKGROUND

Acetabular fractures in the elderly frequently involve segmental quadrilateral plate injury, yet no consensus exists on how to best control the femoral head medial displacement. Quadrilateral surface plates (QSP) were developed to help buttress these challenging fractures. The study aims to 1) Determine the prevalence of segmental quadrilateral plate fractures (SQPF) in elderly patients; and 2) Assess if utilization of a QSP is associated with improved acetabulum fracture reduction and outcome.

METHODS

This was a retrospective study conducted at a level-1 trauma centre. . All patients over 60-years that sustained an acetabular fracture between 2007 and 2019 were reviewed. Pre-operative pelvic radiographs and CT imaging were reviewed for 96 patients, to assess for SQPF. From the 96 patients reviewed, over one third of patients (n = 40, 41.6%) sustained a SQPF. Patients that had an acute-THA (n = 7) were excluded as were patients that underwent an ORIF but did not have a QSP or an anterior column buttress plate (n = 3). The remaining 30 formed the study's cohort. We assessed the ability to achieve and maintain reduction in this elderly population, and compared outcomes using traditional anterior column buttress plates (ilioingual or intra-pelvic approach) versus an intra-pelvic pre-contoured buttress suprapectineal plate (QSP). Outcome measures included: fracture reduction using the Matta classification (desirable: anatomical/imperfect and poor), re-operations, conversion to THA and Oxford Hip Score (OHS) (for the preserved hips).

RESULTS

Ten patients had an ORIF with utilization of a QSP (QSP-group), and 20 had an ORIF but did not have the QSP (non-QSP-group). There was no difference in patient demographics between groups. Fracture patterns were also similar (p = 0.6). Postoperative fracture reduction was desirable (anatomical/imperfect) in 17 patients and poor in 13. Improved ability to achieve a desirable reduction was seen in the QSP-group (p = 0.02). Conversion to THA was significantly lower in patients that had a desirable fracture reduction (appropriate: 3/17; poor: 7/13). No patients in the QSP-group have required a THA to-date, compared to 10/20 patients in the non-QSP-group (p = 0.01). The mean time to THA was 1.6 ± 2.1 year. There was no difference in OHS between the two groups (34.4 ± 10.3).

CONCLUSION

Elderly acetabulum fractures have a high incidence (approaching 40%) of segmental QPF. Desirable (anatomical/imperfect) fracture reduction was associated with improved outcome. The use of a QSP was associated with improved ability to achieve an appropriate reduction. A QSP should be considered as they are both reliable and reproducible with a significantly improved fracture reduction and lower conversion to THA.

Fixation plus acute arthroplasty for acetabular fracture in eldery patients

OBJECTIVE

in elderly patients reduction and fixation of acetabular fractures showed poor outcomes in fracture patterns where cartilage comminution/impaction and/or femoral head dislocation are present; acute arthroplasty with standard uncemented hemispherical cups and posterior plating has been recently proposed, we report on its safety and effectiveness.

METHODS

we used this technique to manage 67 displaced acetabular fracture but both column in patients older than 65 years old.

RESULTS

fractures of posterior column and/or wall with severe cartilage involvement may be treated safely with acute THA.

CONCLUSIONS

Good results in complex fracture patterns may also be achieved.

Outcomes of combined hip procedure with dual mobility cup versus osteosynthesis for acetabular fractures in elderly patients: a retrospective observational cohort study of fifty one patients

Purposes

Acetabular fractures are more and more common in the elderly. Open reduction and internal fixation (ORIF) may lead to poor outcomes and high revision rates. Primary total hip arthroplasty (THA) combined with internal fixation, also known as the combined hip procedure (CHP), associated with dual mobility cup (DM-CHP) could be an efficient procedure in selected elderly patients. The aim of this study is to compare functional and radiological outcomes between ORIF and DM-CHP.

Methods

Between 2007 and 2018, 51 patients older than 65 years were surgically treated for acetabular fractures. Twenty-six patients were treated by DM-CHP and 25 by ORIF. Each group was divided into two subgroups regarding a single or combined approach. Hospital stay, surgical time, intraoperative blood loss, and complications were documented. The Harris Hip Score (HHS) was used for measuring the functional outcome. Radiological analysis was used to assess the centre of rotation in the DM-CHP group.

Results

Median surgery time and intra-operative blood loss were higher in DM-CHP than those in ORIF. Early medical complication rate was higher for a combined approach as compared with a single posterior approach in DM-CHP (p = 0.003). Dislocation rate was 7.7% in DM-CHP. Revision rate was higher in ORIF (20% versus 7.7%). HHS was similar in both groups.

Conclusions

DM-CHP leads to similar functional outcomes and less revision than ORIF. This study strengthens the practice of using only the posterior approach for primary THA in the elderly. Dual mobility is a valid therapeutic option for acetabular fractures in elderly patients.

Open reduction and internal fixation of acetabular fractures in patients of old age

MATERIAL AND METHODS

There is an ongoing debate on which treatment for acetabular fractures in elderly patients is the most appropriate. This study was set up to identify the role of open reduction and internal fixation of acetabular fractures in persons of old age. We retrospectively reviewed the medical charts and radiological data of all patients older than 65 years, who suffered an isolated acetabular fracture and were admitted in our Department between 2010 and 2014 (5-year period). Complications, outcome and mortality were recorded. Of all surviving patients, quality of life (QoL), mobility and independence were graded with European Quality of Life 5 Dimensions 3 Level (EQ-5D-3L), European Quality of Life 5 Dimensions Visual Analogue Scale (EQ-5D-VAS), Numeric Rating Scale (NRS), Elderly Mobility Scale (EMS) and Tinetti Mobility Test (TMT).

RESULTS

Seventy patients could be identified. There were 52 men (74%) and 18 women (26%) with a median age of 79.0 years (range: 65-104 years). Forty-six patients (66%) had been treated with open reduction and internal fixation (ORIF), 24 (34%) conservatively. There were negative predictive factors-subchondral impaction, damage to the femoral head and multiple fragments-in 54% of the operative group. With ORIF, an anatomical reduction could be achieved in 27 patients (59%), an acceptable in 18 (39%) and a poor in one (2%). At follow-up, 18 patients (26%) had died and 23 (33%) were not able to participate. The follow-up rate of the surviving operatively treated patients was 77%. Eleven of 46 operated patients (24%) needed a conversion to a total hip arthroplasty (THA). All patients undergoing conversion had imperfect reduction after surgery. No patient in the non-operative group underwent conversion to THA during follow-up. The median follow-up time of operatively treated patients without conversion (n = 17) was 30 months (range, 16-73 months), of patients with THA (n = 9) 30 months after conversion (range, 17-55 months). Quality of reduction correlated to QoL, mobility and independence in all recorded parameters. Patients with secondary THA had similar good outcomes as patients after ORIF without later conversion. Men had better outcome than women.

CONCLUSION

ORIF of acetabular fractures in patients of old age results in excellent outcomes at short-term follow-up when anatomical reduction can be achieved. In case of negative predictive factors, ORIF cannot be regarded as a definitive solution, rather as the construction of a stable socket for secondary THA. The decision of therapy should be made dependent on pre-operative radiographic parameters.

Acute total hip arthroplasty for older patients with acetabular fractures: A meta-analysis

OBJECTIVE

Multiple treatment options for acetabular fractures in geriatric patients exist. However, no large-scale studies have reported the outcomes of acute total hip arthroplasty (THA) in this patient population. We systematically evaluated all available evidence to characterize clinical outcomes, complications, and revisions of acute THA for acetabular fractures in geriatric patients.

METHODS

Meta-analysis of 21 studies of 430 acetabular fractures with mean follow-up of 44 months (range, 17-97 months). Two independent researchers searched and evaluated the databases of Ovid, Embase, and United States National Library of Medicine using a Boolean search string up to December 2019. Population demographics and complications, including presence of heterotopic ossification (HO), dislocation, infection, revision rate, neurological deficits, and venous thromboembolic event (VTE), were recorded and analyzed.

RESULTS

Weighted mean Harris Hip Score was 83.3 points, and 20% of the patients had reported complications. The most common complication was HO, with a rate of 19.5%. Brooker grade III and IV HO rates were lower at 6.8%. Hip dislocation occurred at a rate of 6.1%, 4.1% of patients developed VTE, deep infection occurred in 3.8%, and neurological complications occurred in 1.9%. Although the revision rate was described in most studies, we were unable to perform a survival analysis because the time to each revision was described in only a few studies. The revision rate was 4.3%.

CONCLUSIONS

Acute THA is a viable option for treatment of acetabular fracture and can result in acceptable clinical outcomes and survivorship rates in older patients but with an associated complication rate of approximately 20%. Considering the limited treatment options, THA might be a viable alternative for appropriately selected patients.

Acetabulum Cup Stability in an Early Weight-Bearing Cadaveric Model of Geriatric Posterior Wall Fractures

BACKGROUND

Primary total hip arthroplasty (THA) has been suggested for posterior wall (PW) fractures with unfavorable features in the geriatric population. There is a paucity of studies reporting on postoperative protocols for primary THA after PW fractures. The purpose of this study was to test the biomechanical effect of immediate assisted weight-bearing on acetabulum THA cup fixation in an osteoporotic PW fracture model.

METHODS

Computed tomography scans of 18 geriatric PW fractures (mean age, 77 ± 8 years) were used to generate representative PW fracture. This fracture pattern, comprising 50% of the PW and 25% of the acetabulum rim, was then created in 6 female cadaveric pelves. A multihole acetabulum THA cup was implanted with line-to-line reaming and fixed with four 5-mm screws. The pelves were cyclically loaded to up to 1.8× body weight (BW) in the intact form, after fracture creation and fracture fixation. Optical markers were used to determine acceptable cup motion of less than 150 μm.

RESULTS

Five specimens withstood 3.6× BW loading after implantation and before fracture creation. At 1.8× BW load, cup motion was nonfractured: 50 ± 24 µm (range, 5-128 µm), fractured with no fixation: 37 ± 22 µm (range, 8-74 µm), or fractured with fixation: 62 ± 39 µm (range, 5-120 µm) (P = 0.0097). Cup motion was <150 µm for all groups.

CONCLUSION

This study supports the practice of allowing immediate assisted weight-bearing in patients undergoing THA with PW fractures involving up to 50% of the PW and up to 25% of the acetabular rim, with or without fixation of the PW fragment.

Total hip arthroplasty in acetabular fractures

Total Hip Arthroplasty (THA) is a well-accepted treatment for established hip arthritis following acetabular fractures. If a conservatively managed or operated case progresses to non-union/mal-union failing to restore the joint integrity, it may eventually develop secondary arthritis warranting a total hip arthroplasty. Also, in recent years, acute total hip arthroplasty is gaining importance in conditions where the fracture presents with pre-existing hip arthritis, is not amenable to salvage by open reduction and internal fixation, or, a poor prognosis is anticipated following fixation. There are several surgical challenges in performing total hip arthroplasty for acetabular fractures whether acute or delayed. As a separate entity elderly patients pose a distinct challenge due to osteoporosis and need stable fixation for early weight bearing alleviating the risk of any thromboembolic event, pulmonary complications and decubitus ulcer. The aim of surgery is to restore the columns for acetabular component implantation rather than anatomic fixation. Meticulous preoperative planning with radiographs and Computed Tomography (CT) scans, adequate exposure to delineate the fracture pattern, and, availability of an array of all instruments and possible implants as backup are the key points for success. Previous implants if any should be removed only if they are in the way of cup implantation or infected. Press fit uncemented modern porous metal acetabular component with multiple screw options is the preferred implant for majority of cases. However, complex fractures may require major reconstruction with revision THA implants especially when a pelvic discontinuity is present.

Early simultaneous bilateral total hip arthroplasty for the management of bilateral acetabular fracture in an elderly patient

Bilateral acetabular fractures in elderly patients due to seizures are very rare and management is a challenge. The standard treatment for acetabular fracture, open reduction with internal fixation, is not recommended for the elderly because of poor bone quality and the need for bed rest. In the acute phase, total hip arthroplasty may be the best treatment option because it allows early mobilization and avoids bed rest complications. We report the case of a 76-year-old man with a bilateral comminuted acetabular fractures and a left fracture dislocation of the shoulder, treated by immediate shoulder arthroplasty and a one-stage bilateral total hip arthroplasty procedure at 3 weeks, with a good result at 1-year follow-up.

Total hip arthroplasty, combined with a reinforcement ring and posterior column plating for acetabular fractures in elderly patients: good outcome in 34 patients

Background and purpose - Low-energy acetabulum fractures are uncommon, and mostly occur in elderly patients. Determining the optimal operative treatment for such fractures is challenging. Here we investigated whether acutely performed total hip arthroplasty plus posterior column plating (THA) reduced complications and reoperations compared with open reduction and internal fixation (ORIF) in elderly patients with acetabular fractures. Patients and methods - We retrospectively reviewed the records of 59 patients, > 55 years of age, with complex acetabular fractures, caused by low-energy trauma, treated between January 2008 and September 2017. Of these patients, 34 underwent acute THA, and 25 ORIF alone. Patient and implant survival were compared between groups using Kaplan-Meier survival analysis and Cox multiple regression. Functional outcomes assessed by Oxford Hip Score (OHS) were compared between the THA patients and those 9 ORIF patients who underwent secondary THA due to posttraumatic hip osteoarthritis (OA) during follow-up. Results - Overall patient survival was 90% (95% CI 82-98) at 12 months, and 64% (CI 47-81) at 5 years. Of 25 ORIF patients, 9 required secondary THA due to posttraumatic OA. Large fragments on the weight-bearing acetabular dome upon imaging predicted ORIF failure and secondary THA. The acute THA group and secondary THA group had similar 12-month OHS. Interpretation - Acute THA including a reinforcement ring resulted in fewer reoperations than ORIF alone in elderly patients with acetabular fractures. These findings support acute THA as first-line treatment for complex acetabular fractures in elderly patients.

Acute management of acetabular fractures by total hip arthroscopy using an anterior approach

INTRODUCTION

Acetabular fractures in elderly patients present a therapeutic challenge, since their osteosynthesis may be hindered by comminution and poor bone quality. In certain cases, a good solution is acute total hip arthroplasty (THA) by direct anterior approach with or without minimal associated osteosynthesis. The objective of this study was to establish the indications and evaluate the clinical/functional, radiological results and complications, in the short and medium term, of acute THA using an anterior approach after acetabular fractures.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

We analyzed 15 patients collecting: demographic data, classification of fractures, surgical data, clinical/functional and evolutionary radiographic evaluation, together with perioperative complications.

RESULTS

The mean follow-up of the patients was 40 months with a final functional assessment of 96.5 for Harris Hip Score, and Merle D'Aubigné excellent in 93%. The radiological controls were satisfactory without prosthetic loosening. Only 2patients presented low-grade heterotopic calcifications. Ninety-four percent of the patients presented optimal postoperative recovery, with immediate loading. There was only one death for reasons unrelated to the surgery.

CONCLUSIONS

Given certain acetabular fractures, acute THA using a direct anterior approach in the supine position and under scope control with a revision cup plus associated minimal osteosynthesis, if necessary, facilitates adequate fracture stabilization with full functional recovery of the patient with immediate loading and excellent results in the short and medium term with minimal complications.

Outcomes of acetabular fractures in the elderly: a five year retrospective study of twenty seven patients with primary total hip replacement

PURPOSES

Open reduction and internal fixation (ORIF) in osteoporotic acetabular fractures is quite difficult with high risk of implant failure. Total hip arthroplasty (THA) may be an effective option for treating acetabular fractures in appropriately selected patients, with immediate full weightbearing. The aim of the study was to evaluate the functional outcomes of primary THA for acetabular fractures in elderly patients.

METHODS

Between 2010 and 2015, 27 elderly patients operated for acetabular fractures by primary THA were included. The surgical technique associated plate stabilization of both acetabular columns with THA using an acetabular reinforcement cross-plate. Mean age was 68.5 years (57-84) and mean ASA was 2 (1-3). The mean follow-up was four years.

RESULTS

The mean Harris score was 70.4 ± 23 (24-90), and the mean Postel-Merle Aubigné (PMA) score was 14.3 ± 4 (7-18). For 17 patients with rank of pre-operative Devane 4, the post-operative rank was unchanged (p < 0.05). Twenty patients (74%) were satisfied by the surgical treatment. Twenty post-operative complications (74%) were found. Two patients died during follow-up (7%).

CONCLUSIONS

Primary THA for acetabular fracture in the elderly population might be a good therapeutic option that allows return to the previous daily life activity. Three patients (11%) became bedridden, and four patient's skiers (15%) returned to skiing. However, this surgery is difficult and selection of elderly patients, i.e., with acetabular fractures who are expected to get a poor result with ORIF, i.e., fracture patterns with posterior wall lesion and marginal impaction, for primary THA in an experienced centre provides satisfactory clinical results.

Total hip arthroplasty for posttraumatic osteoarthritis following acetabular fracture: A systematic review of characteristics, outcomes, and complications

PURPOSE

Posttraumatic arthritis (PTA) may develop years after acetabular fracture, hindering joint function and causing significant chronic musculoskeletal pain. Given the delayed onset of PTA, few studies have assessed outcomes of delayed total hip arthroplasty (THA) in acetabular fracture patients. This study systematically reviewed the literature for outcomes of THA in patients with PTA and prior acetabular fracture.

METHODS

Pubmed, EMBASE, SCOPUS, and Cochrane library were searched for articles containing the keywords "acetabular", "fracture", "arthroplasty", and "post traumatic arthritis" published between 1995 and August 2017. Studies with less than 10 patients, less than 2 years of follow-up, conference abstracts, and non-English language articles were excluded. Data on patient demographics, surgical characteristics, and outcomes of delayed THA, including implant survival, complications, need for revision, and functional scores, was collected from eligible studies.

RESULTS

With 1830 studies were screened and data from 10 studies with 448 patients were included in this review. The median patient age on date of THA was 51.5 years, ranging from 19 to 90 years. The median time from fracture to THA was 37 months, with a range of 27-74 months. Mean follow-up times ranged from 4 to 20 years. The mean Harris hip scores (HHS) improved from 41.5 pre-operatively, to 87.6 post-operatively. The most prevalent postoperative complications were heterotopic ossification (28%-63%), implant loosening (1%-24%), and infection (0%-16%). The minimum 5-year survival of implants ranged from 70% to 100%. Revision rates ranged from 2% to 32%.

CONCLUSION

Despite the difficulties associated with performing THA in patients with PTA from previous acetabular fracture (including soft tissue scarring, existing hardware, and acetabular bone loss) and the relatively high complication rates, THA in patients with PTA following prior acetabular fracture leads to significant improvement in pain and function at 10-year follow-up. Further high quality randomized controlled studies are needed to confirm the outcomes after delayed THA in these patients.

Operative management of acetabulum fractures in the obese patient: challenges and solutions

In this review, we aim to increase our knowledge of the treatment of acetabular fractures in the obese patient population. The extremely high incidence of obesity in the USA is a looming health care concern that impacts aspects of health care in all medical specialties. There are specific concerns to the orthopedic surgeon when treating obese patients for acetabular fracture. Patients with body mass index ≥30 present particular challenges to the surgeon in terms of preexisting medical conditions, diagnostic imaging, and perioperative complications. Specifically, this patient population experiences worse functional outcomes and greater incidence of surgical site infection, intraoperative blood loss, deep venous thrombosis, post-traumatic osteoarthritis, heterotopic ossification, and increased hospital length of stay. These problems are further exacerbated in the morbidly obese, as a scaling effect exists between increasing body mass index and worsening complication profile. This is problematic given the current high incidence of morbid obesity in the USA and particularly worrisome in light of the projected increase in obesity rates for the future.

Cementless total hip arthroplasty in the treatment after acetabular fractures

INTRODUCTION

The outcomes of total hip arthroplasty (THA) for the treatment of posttraumatic arthritis after acetabular fractures were inferior to those after primary non-traumatic THA.

METHODS

This study was performed in academic level I trauma center. From January 2011 to December 2014, a consecutive series of 21 patients (9 females), with average age of 56.7 years (range 29-75 years) who had posttraumatic hip joint arthritis after acetabular fractures, were included in our study. All patients underwent cementless THA. The average duration of follow-up was 26 months (range 24-36 months).

RESULTS

At the latest follow-up, all patients could walk independently, thirteen (62%) patients had excellent Harris hip score, five (24%) had good HHS, and 3 (14%) had fair score. WOMAC scale decreased from 63 (range 42-92) to 4 (range 0-19). Two patients (9.5%) had heterotopic bone formation which did not affect the activity of the patients. There were no signs of loosening of the acetabular cups or around the femoral stem.

CONCLUSION

Cementless THA is an ideal treatment for posttraumatic hip arthritis with anatomic restoration of the hip center to improve the functional results and decrease the incidence of complications and revision rate.

Ilioinguinal approach versus Stoppa approach for open reduction and internal fixation in the treatment of displaced acetabular fractures: A systematic review and meta-analysis

PURPOSE

To compare the efficacy and safety of open reduction and internal fixation through ilioinguinal approach and Stoppa approach for the treatment of displaced acetabular fractures.

METHODS

Case-controlled trials (CCTs) published from January 2010 to August 2015 that compared the ilioinguinal approach and Stoppa approach in the management of displaced acetabular fractures were retrieved from the databases of Cochrane Library, Pubmed, CNKI, and so on. Methodological quality of the trials was critically assessed. Statistical software RevMan 5.0 was used for data analysis.

RESULTS

Eight articles were included in the meta-analysis. Through comparing the efficacy and safety of ilioinguinal approach and Stoppa approach in the treatment of displaced acetabular fracture, statistical significance was found in the average operation time [WMD = 68.29, 95% CI (10.52, 126.05), p < 0.05] and the median intraoperative blood loss [WMD = 142.26, 95% CI (9.30, 275.23), p < 0.05]. However, there existed no statistical significance in the fracture end reset satisfaction rate [RR = 0.63, 95% CI (0.17, 2.37), p > 0.05], the early complications rate [RR = 0.89, 95% CI (0.33, 2.40), p > 0.05], the late complications rate [RR = 0.91, 95% CI (0.27, 3.01), p > 0.05], and Harris hip score good function rate [RR = 0.52, 95% CI (0.25, 1.10), p > 0.05].

CONCLUSION

Though both techniques can obtain satisfactory clinical functions in the treatment of displaced acetabular fractures, Stoppa approach is superior to the ilioinguinal approach in terms of operation time and intraoperative blood loss.

Epidemiology and treatment of acetabular fractures in a level-1 trauma centre: Retrospective study of 414 patients over 10 years

BACKGROUND

Epidemiological studies of acetabular fractures (AFs) are scarce and, to our knowledge, the most recent one from France, by Letournel and Judet, dates back to 1993. Studies have suggested a decrease in high-energy AFs contrasting with an increase in low-energy AFs due to the longer life expectancy. However, a French case-series study failed to confirm these data. We therefore conducted a 10-year retrospective study in a level-1 trauma centre to: (1) characterise the epidemiological profile of AF; (2) and to describe the treatment strategy.

HYPOTHESIS

The epidemiological profile of AF in France is consonant with data from European case-series studies.

METHOD

All patients managed for AF between 2005 and 2014 were included in this single-centre retrospective study. All patients were re-evaluated at our centre or another facility 6 months after the fracture. The epidemiological data were compared in the three treatment groups: non-operative, open reduction and internal fixation (ORIF), and total hip arthroplasty (THA).

RESULTS

Between 2005 and 2014, 414 patients were admitted for AF. Mean age was 49.4 years (range: 15-101 years). Treatment was non-operative in 231 (56%) older patients, most of whom had low-energy fractures involving the anterior wall. THA with or without acetabular reinforcement and screw-plate fixation was performed in 27 (7%) older patients, most of whom had posterior-wall fractures and experienced postoperative complications (26/27 patients, 96%). ORIF was used in 156 (38%) younger patients, most of whom had high-energy fractures of greater complexity.

CONCLUSION

Our results reflect the current indications in AF management. The epidemiological characteristics in our population are comparable to those reported in the few recent European epidemiological studies. To our knowledge, this is the largest French epidemiological study since the landmark work by Letournel and Judet.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Level IV, retrospective study.