Acetabular distraction hip arthroplasty in neglected transverse and T-shape acetabular fractures : a different application

Abstract

Neglected acetabular fractures are often challenging to treat. The aim of this study is to highlight the technique of acetabular distraction with porous metal cup as a viable technique to address such complex cases.

This is a prospective study of seven patients who had neglected acetabular fracture or fracture non-union that were managed with total hip arthroplasty using acetabular distraction and porous metal cup with cemented liner.

The average age of the patients was 51 years (range 36-58 years). Average time of follow up was 18 months (range 12-36 months). Radiological results at latest follow up and by comparing serial radiographs showed that all cases had a well-fixed implant construct without evidence of loosening or malorientation. Average Harris hip score pre-operatively was 46, which improved to an average of 84 post-operatively. Our study shows that total hip replacement using acetabular distraction with porous metal cup provide early good results in reconstruction of acetabular bony deficiencies due to neglected acetabular fracture.