Open reduction and internal fixation by reconstruction plate and screws for fractures of the posterior wall of the acetabulum

Abstract EN

Objective : This study was performed to evaluate the functional and radiological results of treatment of fractures of the posterior wall of the acetabulum by open reduction and internal fixation by reconstruction plate and screws.

Patients and method : Twelve adult patients, eleven males and one female who presented to the emergency department in the Suez Canal University hospital during the period from July 2000 to June 2001 were included in this study.

The fractured acetabulum was associated with posterior dislocation of the hip in eight patients (66.7 %).

The follow up period ranged from 12 to 24 months (average 18 months).

The functional outcome of the operative intervention was evaluated accoii mg to Mattais modification of the system ot Merle d’ Aubigne and Postel (1).

Results : Eleven patients (91.7 %) were found to have satisfactory functional outcome, whereas only one patient (8.3 %) had a fair result.

Quality of reduction was graded according to the graces proposed by Malta.

Eleven patients (91.7 %) were found to have an anatomical reduction and only one patient (8.3 %) had an imperfect reduction.

Anatomical reduction was found to have a significant effect on the clinical results.

Postoperative complications were unremarkable except for superficial infection in two patients (16.7 %).

Conclusion : Early anatomical reduction and internal fixation by reconstruction plate and screws can be used for the treatment of fracture posterior wall of the acetabulum with satisfactory outcome with minimal complications.