Abstract
Severe central facture dislocations of the hip in the elderly can be catastrophic. Conservative treatment yields poor results with stiff painful hips. Reasonable hip function may be achieved with multiple surgical procedures and extended periods of immobilisation, but morbidity and mortality remain high.
We managed three elderly patients who had central fracture dislocations with early total hip arthroplasty (THA), using anteprotrusio supports. Bone grafting was used to re-establish acetabular bone stock.
Intraoperatively and postoperatively, these patients had no more complications than did patients undergoing THA for hip fractures. However, the surgical times were longer than for routine THA and blood replacement was slightly higher. Patients were mobilised early and aggressively. All became independent walkers and regained good range of movement. Radiologically the acetabular/pelvic fractures united and good bone-implant interfaces were established. There was no excessive heterotrophic bone formation.
We regard THA in the management of acetabular fractures in the elderly as a reasonable approach, enabling patients to mobilise early and keeping morbidity to an acceptable level.
The abstracts were prepared by Professor M.B.E. Sweet. Correspondence should be addressed to him at PO Box 47363, Parklands, Johannesburg 2121, South Africa.
