Therapeutic difficulties encountered in the treatment of fractures of the acetabulum. Retrospective study of 44 cases of osteosynthesis of the acetabulum
Meyer, F.M.; Ablanque, F.; Livio, J.J.
Helvetica Chirurgica Acta 45(6): 789-791
1979
ISSN/ISBN: 0018-0181 PMID: 429184 Document Number: 141339
A retrospective study shows several factors that influence the ultimate prognosis of fracture-dislocations of the hip. The magnitude of the initial injury worsens the prognosis as far as functional recovery and residual pain are concerned. The most difficult cases are those with anterior and posterior fractures of the acetabulum. The quality of reduction is often imperfect and the techniques of surgical repair are very difficult and time consuming. Provided there is no associated lesion of the sciatic nerve, the more simple fracture (transverse and posterior) gives better operation results. Reduction is often entirely successful if the surgical technique is adequate. Despite proper treatment, some patients develop aseptic necrosis of the femoral head and are left with most severe sequela.