Abstract
Fracture of the acetabulum can lead to degenerative arthritis of the hip, avascular necrosis of the femoral head, or both. Total hip arthroplasty is a common form of surgical treatment when significant joint changes and pain are present.
Ten patients with fracture acetabulum were treated in this study using metal on metal total hip arthoplasty. The initial fracture was posterior wall fracture in one patient, posterior column fracture in one patient, transverse fracture in 2 patients, fracture dislocation in 3 patients and fracture posterior wall and column in 3 patients. The indications of arthroplasty were secondry osteoarthritis after internal fixation or after conservative management or collapse of the femoral head. Arthroplasty was done after an average period of 1.8 years (range from 1 to 4 years).
After a follow up period ranged from 3 to 7 years with a mean of 4.6 years, the Harris hip score was improved from a mean of 51 (range 20 to 65) to a mean of 92.5 (range 90 to 95). Infection occurred in one case and two stages revision was done. Another case developed loosening of the acetabular component and was revised using cementless cup fixed with screws and bone graft.
Metal on metal THR after acetabular fracture are relatively uncomplicated and lead to a good outcome despite the difficulties faced during the procedure.
