Our unit historically performed total hip replacement (THR) through either posterior or anterolateral approaches. In November 2020 a group of 5 consultants transitioned to utilising the Direct Anterior Approach (DAA). Appropriate training was undertaken and cases were performed as dual consultant procedures with intraoperative radiography or robotic assistance. Outcomes were collated prospectively. These included basic demographics, intraoperative details, complication rates and Oxford Hip Scores. A total of 48 patients underwent DAA THR over 1 year. Mean age was 67 and ASA 2. Over this time period 140 posterior approach and 137 anterolateral approach THR's were performed with available data. Propensity score matching was performed on a 1:1 basis using BMI, Age, Sex and ASA as covariates to generate a matched cohort group of conventional approach THR (n=37). Length of stay was significantly reduced at 1.95 days (p<0.001) with DAA compared to Anterolateral and Posterior approach. There was no significant difference with length of surgery, blood loss, Infection, dislocation and periprosthetic fracture rate. There was no significant difference in Oxford Hip Score between any approach at 3 months or 1 year. The transition to this approach has not made a negative impact despite its associated steep learning curve, and has improved efficiency in elective surgery. From our experience we would suggest those changing to this approach receive appropriate training in a high-volume centre, and perform cases as dual consultant procedures

Introduction. The usefulness of minimal invasive hip replacement is frequently discussed but there is a lack of data on the effect of the surgical approach on early results. We wanted to study the effect of the surgical approach on the peri- and early postoperative outcome. Material/Methods. In a prospective case control study 315 elective hip replacements were performed between January 2008 and March 2010. Until March 2009 a lateral transgluteal approach (STD) was used, then the approach was changed to a minimal invasive anterior approach (MIS). All operations were performed in the same routine setting not affected by the approach. Duration of operation, complications and bloodloss were assessed. 1 week postoperatively, independent mobility, stairs, central analgetics were analysed and length of stay was recorded. At 6 and 12 weeks, pain and patients satisfaction (VAS) and the Harris Hip Score were assessed. Pre- and postoperative radiographs were compared for component position and orientation (EBRA). Results. 6 patients (hips) refused participation, 4 were excluded for other reasons. 174 (57%) hips belonged to STD and 131 (43%) to MIS. There were no demographic differences between both groups. Operation time was longer for MIS (109 vs. 123 min, p=.001). At 1 week, MIS patients were more mobile (rising up from bed, p=.009; stairs, p=.015) and time of hospitalisation became shorter (p=.001). At 6 weeks, MIS patients had less pain at motion (p=.013), less limb (p=.001), a higher HHS (p=.007) and were more satisfied (p=.046). The differences remained unchanged after 12 weeks. There was no difference in implant positioning between the groups. Inclination was higher in group MIS [39° (SD 6°) vs. 38° (SD 7°), p=.030], anteversion was lower [21° (SD 8°) vs. 24° (SD 8°), p=.010]. Conclusion. The introduction of the MIS anterior approach was safe. Early rehabilitation was facilitated and clinical results were better. Radiographical results were not impaired by the new approach. We see no disadvantage of the MIS anterior approach. Adaptions in the clinical setup might further facilitate rehabilitation

Introduction

Debate remains which surgical technique should be used for ankle arthrodesis. Several open approaches have been described, as well as the arthroscopic method, using a variety of fixation devices.

Both arthroscopic and open procedures have good results with union rates of 93–95%, 3% malunion rate and patient satisfaction of 70–90%, although some report complication rates as high as 40%.

Aims. Posterior column plating through the single anterior approach reduces the morbidity in acetabular fractures that require stabilization of both the columns. The aim of this study is to assess the effectiveness of posterior column plating through the anterior intrapelvic approach (AIP) in the management of acetabular fractures. Methods. We retrospectively reviewed the data from R G Kar Medical College, Kolkata, India, from June 2018 to April 2023. Overall, there were 34 acetabulum fractures involving both columns managed by medial buttress plating of posterior column. The posterior column of the acetabular fracture was fixed through the AIP approach with buttress plate on medial surface of posterior column. Mean follow-up was 25 months (13 to 58). Accuracy of reduction and effectiveness of this technique were measured by assessing the Merle d’Aubigné score and Matta’s radiological grading at one year and at latest follow-up. Results. Immediate postoperative radiological Matta’s reduction accuracy showed anatomical reduction (0 to 1 mm) in 23 cases (67.6%), satisfactory (2 to 3 mm) in nine (26.4%), and unsatisfactory (> 3 mm) in two (6%). Merle d’Aubigné score at the end of one year was calculated to be excellent in 18 cases (52.9%), good in 11 (32.3%), fair in three (8.8%), and poor in two (5.9%). Matta’s radiological grading at the end of one year was calculated to be excellent in 16 cases (47%), good in nine (26.4%), six in fair (17.6%), and three in poor (8.8%). Merle d’Aubigné score at latest follow-up deteriorated by one point in some cases, but the grading remained the same; Matta’s radiological grading at latest follow-up also remained unchanged. Conclusion. Stabilization of posterior column through AIP by medial surface plate along the sciatic notch gives good stability to posterior column, and at the same time can avoid morbidity of the additional lateral window. Cite this article: Bone Jt Open 2024;5(2):147–153

PURPOSE OF THE STUDY. The anterior approach to the thoracic and lumbar spine is used with increasing frequency for various indications. With the advent of prosthetic intervertebral disc replacement, its use has become even more frequent and has often been associated with serious complications. The aim of this study was to evaluate vascular complications in patients who underwent anterior spinal surgery of the thoracic and lumbar spine. MATERIAL. We performed a total of 531 operations of the thoracolumbar spine from the anterior approach. In 12 cases, after exposure of the body of the first or second thoracic vertebrae, we employed the Smith-Robinson technique to expose the cervical spine. We used sternotomy in six, posterolateral thoracotomy in 209, pararectal retroperitoneal approach in 239, anterolateral lumbotomy in 58 and the transperitoneal approach in seven patients. The aim of surgery was somatectomy in 190 patients and discectomy in 341 patients. Sternotomy and transperitoneal approaches were carried out by a thoracic or vascular surgeon and all the other procedures were done by the first author. The indications for spinal surgery included an accident in 171, tumour in 56, spondylodiscitis in 43 and a degenerative disease in 261 patients. METHODS. The Smith-Robinson approach was used for exposure of T1 or T2. Sternotomy was indicated for treatment of T2–T4 and also T1 in the patients with a short, thick neck. Access to T3–L1 was gained by posterolateral thoracotomy, in most cases performed as a minimally invasive transpleural procedure. For access to the lumbar spine we usually used the retroperitoneal approach from a pararectal incision or lumbotomy. We preferred the pararectal retroperitoneal approach in L2–S1 degenerative disease, L5 fractures, and L5–S1 spondylodiscitis. We carried out lumbotomy in patients with trauma, tumors and L1–L4 spondylodiscitis. The transperitoneal approach from lower middle laparotomy was used only in tumors at L5 or L4. The patients were followed up for 2 to 96 months (average, 31.4 months) after anterior spinal surgery. RESULTS. In 12 patients treated by the Smith-Robinson procedure and in six patients undergoing sternotomy, neither early nor late signs of any injury to major blood vessels or internal organs were recorded. The 209 patients with posterolateral thoracotomy were also free from any signs of vascular injury, but trauma to the thoracic duet was recorded in one case. We found injury to major blood vessels in three patients in the group treated by the pararectal retroperitoneal procedure. In the total of 531 anterior spinal surgery procedures this accounts for 0.56 %; of the 304 lumbar operations and 239 pararectal retroperitoneal operations it is 0.99 % and 1.26 %, respectively. In one patient the vascular injury was associated with trauma to the ureter. CONCLUSIONS. The technique of anterior approach is safe only in the hands of experienced spinal surgeons with long experience. In institutions where anterior spinal surgery is not a routine method it is advisable to involve a vascular or cardiac surgeon. However, the most important point is to know when not to operate

The optimal method for the management of neglected traumatic bifacetal dislocation of the subaxial cervical spine has not been established. We treated four patients in whom the mean delay between injury and presentation was four months (1 to 5). There were two dislocations at the C5-6 level and one each at C4-5 and C3-4. The mean age of the patients was 48.2 years (27 to 60). Each patient presented with neck pain and restricted movement of the cervical spine. Three of the four had a myelopathy. We carried out a two-stage procedure under the same anaesthetic. First, a posterior soft-tissue release and partial facetectomy were undertaken. This allowed partial reduction of the dislocation which was then supplemented by interspinous wiring and corticocancellous graft. Next, through an anterior approach, discectomy, tricortical bone grafting and anterior cervical plating were carried out. All the patients achieved a nearly anatomical reduction and sagittal alignment. The mean follow-up was 2.6 years (1 to 4). The myelopathy settled completely in the three patients who had a pre-operative neurological deficit. There was no graft dislodgement or graft-related problems. Bony fusion occurred in all patients and a satisfactory reduction was maintained. The posteroanterior procedure for neglected traumatic bifacetal dislocation of the subaxial cervical spine is a good method of achieving sagittal alignment with less risk of iatrogenic neurological injury, a reduced operating time, decreased blood loss, and a shorter hospital stay compared with other procedures

Background:. Pilon fractures are complex intra-articular fractures of the tibial plafond associated with significant short and long morbidity. Minimising surgical complications is essential. Methods:. Clinical and radiological outcomes in 49 patients with AO type 43B and 43C fractures were evaluated retrospectively. Definitive management depended on patient factors, soft tissue injury and fracture pattern. Results:. The majority of fractures (n=26, 53%) were C3 type. 9 fractures were open (18%), grade 3A or 3B. 34 patients (69%) were definitively managed with open reduction and internal fixation (ORIF) predominantly through an anterior approach. 15 (31%) had mini-open or percutaneous plafond reduction and external fixation. No medial plates were used. There were no deep infections. Complications occurred in 5 (10%) patients, all relating to metaphyseal delayed or non-union. At last review, 18 patients (36%) had radiographic evidence of post-traumatic arthritis. Discussion:. Surgeons treating pilon fractures should be familiar with external and internal fixation techniques in order to minimise surgical complications. An algorithm for treatment planning is suggested. Conclusion:. It is possible to achieve low surgical complication rates through careful management according to the nature of the fracture and patient characteristics. For plating, the antero-lateral distal tibial Peri-Loc plate is an effective and safe implant

Introduction. Current artificial discs include 1 or 2 bearing surfaces, providing 3 or 5 degrees of freedom. The ESP® is a one-piece e implant made of silicon and polycarbonate -urethane securely fixed to titanium endplates. It allows limited rotation and translation with elastic return. This cushion without fixed rotation center achieves 6 degrees of freedom including shock absorption. This objective of this study was to evaluate the safety and efficacy of the concept in a prospective nonrandomized trial. Material and methods. Prior to clinical implantations, the device was endurance tested at least 40 millions cycles. The polymer core weight and properties, the geometrical characteristics and cohesion of the implants remained stable. A prospective trial was initiated in 2004 for L3L4, L4L5 and L5S1 levels. Total disc replacements have been performed in 153 lumbar levels through extra-peritoneal mini-invasive anterior approach with a minimum 2 years follow-up. Results. There was no clinical or radiological device related complication, except 2 early revisions for post-traumatic implant migrations (8, 17 days post-op.). When comparing the device to other implants, clinically relevant improvements in VAS, SF-36 and ODI scores were observed. At ultimate follow-up, the index level was mobile in 83% of the cases (5,3 ° ± 4.1). The mean centre of rotation was in the physiological area in 78% of cases without relevant modification of adjacent disc levels (Spineview® analysis). Conclusion. The 6 years clinical follow-up demonstrate the reliability of the concept and the safety and forgiveness of the implant

Background Context. Different minimally invasive approaches to the lumbar spine have been proposed but they can be associated with increased risk of complications, steep learning curve and longer operative time. Purpose. To report the complications associated with a minimally invasive technique of retroperitoneal anterolateral approach to the lumbar spine. Study design. Retrospective study of 179 patients who underwent anterior oblique lumbar interbody fusion (OLIF). Methods. A total of 179 patients with previous posterior instrumented fusion undergoing OLIF were included. This muscle-splitting approach consists in anterolateral exposure through a 4 cm incision followed by placement of a PEEK cage filled with bone graft and/or substitute. Results. Patients were aged 54.110.6 years with BMI of 24.84.1 kg/m2. Length of follow-up was (0.90.7 years), including 17 patients with a minimum follow-up of 2 years. A left-sided approach was done in 174 patients. The procedure was performed at L1–2 in 4, L2–3 in 54, L3–4 in 120, L4–5 in 134 and L5-S1 in 6 patients. It was done at 1 level in 56, 2 levels in 107, and 3 levels in 16 patients. Operative time and blood loss were respectively 32.513.2 min and 57131 cc per level fused. There were 19 patients with single complication and one with two complications, including two patients with postoperative radiculopathy after L3–5 OLIF. There was no abdominal weakness or herniation. Conclusion. Minimally invasive OLIF can be performed easily and safely from L2 to L5, and at L1–2 and L5-S1 for selected cases. Up to 3 levels can be addressed through a “sliding window”. It is associated with minimal blood loss and short operative time. The risk of complications is similar to that reported for traditional anterior approaches, with the advantage of decreasing the risk of abdominal wall weakness or herniation

Introduction. Depending on patient's age, risk factors and pretraumatic mobility, a total- or hemiarthroplasty of the hip have become the treatment of choice in femoral neck fractures(1–4). Internal fixation has shown to provide minor results. The majority of these patients are therefore treated by a hemiarthroplasty of the hip. Since the primary goal is to regain the pretraumatic level of mobility as soon as possible(3;5), we sought to investigate, if a minimal invasive anterior approach would be beneficial in regard of perioperative blood loss(6), postoperative pain(7;8) and thus postoperative mobility(9). Patients and methods. In a randomised controlled trial, 48 patients were treated by a hemiarthroplasty of the hip via an anterior or lateral approach in supine position within 72 hours after trauma(10). Apart from parameters like age, ASA-Score or Body-mass-index, the main focus was set on perioperative blood loss, pain and postoperative mobilisation. All data collected were compared between groups to detect statistical significant differences. Additionally the same parameters were checked for significant differences comparing patients with or without complications within their group. Results. A significant difference between groups was found for postoperative pain within the first 72 hours and for operation time, both to the disadvantage of the minimal invasive approach group. Within groups, time of operation and patient's age were significantly higher in patients with complications in the minimal invasive group such as pain at 48 hours was rated higher in patients with complications in the lateral approach group. These results though did not seem to influence postoperative mobility since no significant differences were found between groups at follow-up. Conclusion. Despite some differences in the postoperative course, postoperative mobility does not seem to be greatly influenced by the choice of the approach for hemiarthroplasty of the hip in femoral neck fractures. Still, the operation time was significantly linked to postoperative complications. In this respect, it can be concluded, that the approach an individual surgeon is most familiar with is likely to lead to best results

Purpose. In stabilisations of atlantoaxial instabilities it holds risks to injure the A. vertebralis as well as neurological structures. Furthermore the posterior approach of the upper part of the cervical spine requires a huge and traumatic preparation of the soft tissue. However the anterior transarticular C1-2 fusion (ATF) is less traumatic and offers almost the same strengh of the stabilisation. Methods. Since the 01/2007 22 multimorbid patients with atlanto-axial instabilities of different entities were treated via the ATF, were regular examined radiologicaly (x-ray/CT) and the procedure critically judged. Results. C1-2 fusions were performed in 22 patients (17f, 5m, Ø 81,67 years). Main symptoms was pain radiating in the upper cervical spine and the occiput, 2 Patients complaining radiating pain with paraesthesia. The average operation-time took 64,5 min. Leftside the screws of Ø 39,5mm (32–44mm), rightside of 36mm (32–44mm) were inserted in addiction to the point of access and the angle of insertion (mediolateral angle Ø 32,0°, ventrodorsal Ø17,6°). No introperative complications occured, one revision had to be done because of p.o. bleeding, one because of screw dislocation. Postoperative x-ray and CT control of the upper cervical spine showed 30/44 screws in 22 patients in correct position. 8 (18,2%) screws were too long, 3 (6,8%) screws were placed too anterior and 3 (6,8%) too medial. 8 additional positionated dens-screws were in correct position. After a clear learning curve both screws of the 6th patient were positoinated correct. Two aspects are important for success: Correct entry point and right insertion of the angle in the coronar and sagittal view. A low intraoperative blood loss, a non traumatic access as well as an immediate pain decrease have to be valued positively for this procedure. Conclusions. The gentle procedure of the ATF requires-despite of the huge experience in anterior surgery of dens fractures - a learning curve, because of the more proximate insertion point, the flat insertion angle and the closeness of the A. vertebralis. If these aspects are going to be noticed, failed screw positioning and excessive length as well as injuries of the A. vertebralis can be avoided

Anteriorly displaced fractures of the wrist can be treated by the Kapandji technique of percutaneous intrafocal pinning with pins inserted through an anterior approach to give good reduction and stabilisation of the fracture. We have modified this technique by placing the pins through a posterior approach which decreases the risks of neurovascular damage. We have used this method to treat six children with distal radial fractures showing anterior displacement or instability. Good anterior stabilisation was achieved. The pins were removed at an average of eight weeks and the patients were then able to return to full activity. This simple technique can be used for unstable fractures after the failure of conservative treatment or in bilateral fractures in adolescents

Introduction. The anterior mini-invasive approach to performing total hip arthroplasty (THA) is associated with less soft tissue damage and a shorter postoperative recovery than other methods. In August 2008, our hospital abandoned the traditional lateral Hardinge approach in favor of this new method. The purpose of this study was to measure changes in short-term clinical and radiological results and complications after the changeover. Methods. We compared the first 100 patients operated after the changeover to the new method (MI group) to the last 100 patients operated using the traditional method (LH group). Clinical and radiological parameters and complications were recorded pre- and postoperatively and the collected data of the two groups were statistically analyzed and compared. Results. There were no statistically significant differences between either group with regard to patient demographics or procedural data, placement of the femur component, postoperative leg discrepancy, prosthesis dislocation, blood transfusion, or postoperative dislocation of the components. The MI group had a significantly shorter hospital stay (p<0.001) and significantly fewer infections (p = 0.007) of the operative site. The LH group had a significantly shorter operative time (p<0.001), less bleeding (p = 0.035), less nerve damage (p = 0.013), and radiologically better positioning of the acetabular component regarding anteversion (p<0.001). Furthermore, a few other recorded surgical complications were more frequent in the MI group, but the difference was not statistically significant. Interpretation. Our results show that the anterior approach correlates with faster postoperative recovery and less soft tissue damage with respect to the lateral approach. Since the changeover, we observed an increase in the overall complications, but in this study this increase was not found to be statistically significant. These complications were not only found in the initial patients operated with the mini-invasive approach, but were homogeneously spread over all 100 patients. Additionally, and perhaps most worrying was the clinically significant increase in intraoperative femur fractures in the MI group. The changeover to the anterior mini-invasive approach, which was the surgeons' initial experience with the MI technique, resulted in a drastic increase in the number of overall complications. A future randomized, prospective study including functional scores and a large body of patients will be imperative to show whether the two different approaches really are equivalent

Both posterior and anterior surgery have potential for complete scoliosis correction. Significant difference in judging the procedures still persists. Aim. To establish objective advantages and risks of the procedures, basing upon long term results. Method. From 1982–2007, 859 anterior(A) and 388 posterior(P) instrumentations were performed by the same surgeon. Single level thoracotomy used even in double curves. Spinal canal was never opened, rib heads left intact, ribs were fractured at the top of rib hump. Zielke rod was used for correction, and another rod added for aditional correction and stabilisation. Various posterior instrumentations were used. Results. CORRECTION (A)frontal 67-45-16(76%), sagital +6, (P)frontal 66-44-29(56%), sag+3; OP. TIME (A)140(50–300), (P)155(110–350); BLOOD REPL. (A)18%, (P)92%; HOSP STAY (A)10, (P)13; VC (A)-10%, (P)0%; SPORT ACT. (A)3mths, (P)12mths; MAJOR COMPLICATIONS: no deaths, (A)1 aorta rupture, 1 bronchus penetration, 0,7% haematothorax, 0,6% reinstrumentation, 0,7% infections demanding op, (P)2 paraplegia (0,5%), 3.9% infections, 4.9% reinstrumentation. Discussion. (A)required no neuromonitoring, no intensive care unit. Blood replacement was occasionally used only for double curves (11 segm), and in preop. anemia. Most of the complications were preventable. Hospitalisation was longer in (P) group due to wound problems. Pulmonary decrease was found only in curves greater than 100 °. Halo traction improved VC, but both instr. had no influence on further improv. In (A)VC recovered in 6 months. Conclusions. (A) can be performed in less radical and agressive way. Anterior release significantly mobilizes the spine and decreases necessary corrective forces. Infection was more frequent in (P) but consequences were more dramatic in (A). All major complications in (A) were preventable. There is temporary decrease in pulmonary function after (A). We could not find objectives for (A) to have more morbidity than (P). Due to superior results we still prefer (A) in surgery of AIS. Our indications for (P) is VC<40%, age, poor bone quality, surgery in upper thoracic spine

Introduction. Significant access morbidity with intercostal neuralgia and post-thoracotomy pain syndrome was reported in case that an anterior approach for spondylodesis of fractures of the thoracolumbar spine was used. We describe our experience with thoracoscopical fusion from anterior as a less invasive approach. Patients. Between 02/2007 and 09/2008 in a series of 32 patients (18 male; mean age 43, 17–74yrs) with fractures of the thoracolumbar spine (level Th11: n = 2, level Th12: n = 12, level L1: n = 18; fracture types: A3.1.1: n = 15, A3.2.1: n = 11, A3.3.1: n = 3, B2.1: n = 1 and B2.3: n = 2) thoracoscopical fracture stabilization was performed. A less invasive approach with three portals without an assistant was used facilitated by a new retractor system. In 16 patients fracture stabilization from anterior was supported by an additional spondylodesis using an dorsal approach. For reconstruction of the anterior column a VLIFT-system (n = 19), a Synex- (n = 11) or a Harms-Cage (n = 2) in combination with a MACS-TL (n = 16) or a Arcofix-system (n = 2) were used. Results. Thoracoscopical fusion from anterior was performed about 8 days after the injury (1–73 days), monosegmental in 11 and bisegmental in 21 out of 32 cases. The mean overall operating time was 201min (range 105–380min). The mean overall blood loss was 780ml, in 3/32 patients blood transfusions were required. In one patient epidural bleeding and in another a screw cut-out of the MACS system of the first lumbar vertebral body occurred intraoperatively. Revision surgery was necessary due to failure of the hardware (n = 2) or occurrence of hematothorax (n = 1). In the further follow up period no wound healing disorders, failure of the implants nor intercostal neuralgia were noted. Discussion. The endoscopic view is two-dimensional and may disorientate the less experienced surgeon, and thus, prolong operation time. However, the use of a retractor system allowed for bimanual operation increasing the depth perception, provided an optimal illuminated, and permanent and stable operation field, and was economic as an assistant was not required. Conclusion. The presented technique is a high demanding approach for anterior fusion of fractures of the thoracolumbar spine, however, with the potential to reduce the surgical access trauma to a minimum with an operation time comparable to open surgery. Patients might benefit from a shortened rehabilitation and a early reintegration into professional life

Aims

Dual plating of distal femoral fractures with medial and lateral implants has been performed to improve construct mechanics and alignment, in cases where isolated lateral plating would be insufficient. This may potentially compromise vascularity, paradoxically impairing healing. This study investigates effects of single versus dual plating on distal femoral vascularity.

Aims

The best method of treating unstable pelvic fractures that involve the obturator ring is still a matter for debate. This study compared three methods of treatment: nonoperative, isolated posterior fixation and combined anteroposterior stabilization.

This study compared the quality of reduction and complication rate when using a standard ilioinguinal approach and the new pararectus approach when treating acetabular fractures surgically. All acetabular fractures that underwent fixation using either approach between February 2005 and September 2014 were retrospectively reviewed and the demographics of the patients, the surgical details and complications were recorded.

A total of 100 patients (69 men, 31 women; mean age 57 years, 18 to 93) who were consecutively treated were included for analysis. The quality of reduction was assessed using standardised measurement of the gaps and steps in the articular surface on pre- and post-operative CT-scans.

There were no significant differences in the demographics of the patients, the surgical details or the complications between the two approaches. A significantly better reduction of the gap, however, was achieved with the pararectus approach (axial: p = 0.025, coronal: p = 0.013, sagittal: p = 0.001).

These data suggest that the pararectus approach is at least equal to, or in the case of reduction of the articular gap, superior to the ilioinguinal approach.

This approach allows direct buttressing of the dome of the acetabulum and the quadrilateral plate, which is particularly favourable in geriatric fracture patterns.

Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2015;97-B:1271-8.

In the time since Letournel popularised the surgical treatment of acetabular fractures, more than 25 years ago, there have been many changes within the field, related to patients, surgical technique, implants and post-operative care. However, the long-term outcomes appear largely unchanged. Does this represent stasis or have the advances been mitigated by other negative factors? In this article we have attempted to document the recent changes within the surgery of patients with a fracture involving the acetabulum, outline contemporary management, and identify the major problem areas where further research is most needed.

Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2017;99-B:1125–31

Aims

To evaluate the outcomes of cemented total hip arthroplasty (THA) following a fracture of the acetabulum, with evaluation of risk factors and comparison with a patient group with no history of fracture.