Acetabular Fractures: An Analysis of Functional and Radiological Outcome and It’s Determinants

Abstract

Introduction: Acetabular fractures are one of the most complex and challenging fractures for orthopaedic surgeons. Motor vehicle accidents and high impact falls are the most common cause for acetabular fracture. These intra-articular fractures may lead to many complications like disabling traumatic arthropathy. In this study we have evaluated the radiological and functional outcome and factors influencing the outcome of acetabulum fractures. Materials And Methods: A prospective follow-up study was conducted on radiological proven acetabular fracture patients admitted at Mahatma Gandhi Medical College &Hospital, Sitapura, Jaipur, during January 2018 to June 2019. All patients were followed up for a post-operative period of 12 months. The clinical outcome was graded based on Merle d’Aubigné Clinical grading system and the Radiological outcome was evaluated by Matta’s criteria. Results: Study includes 31 patients with age range from 06 years to 72 years. More than 50% of patients were in the age group of 20 to 39 years. Acetabular fracture was more commonly seen in males (87.1%) as compared to females (12.9%). Most common cause of acetabular fracture was motor vehicle accident (67.7%). Patients managed by operative intervention has excellent to good functional outcome in 85% of the cases as compared to 50% of nonoperative patients. Radiological outcome was found excellent to good in 84% of operated cases as compared to 25% of patients managed conservatively. Conclusion: Acetabular fractures are complex injuries and should be viewed as an operative problem unless the criteria for nonoperative management are met. The outcome results are influenced by the age of the patient, fracture pattern, associated injuries, and delay to surgical fixation. Long term follow ups of the patients are required to determine the effectiveness of the management in preventing the late complications.