Posterior acetabular column and quadrilateral plate fractures: fixation with tension band principles

Abstract

Acetabular fractures can be classified into 5 simple and 5 associated fracture patterns. A significant amount of variation and complexity exists in these fractures patterns. Fractures of the posterior wall are the most common acetabular fractures. Comminution of the quadrilateral plate adds to fracture instability, and more rigid and stable internal fixation is mandatory. The goal of this study was to assess the results of reconstruction of comminuted posterior wall fractures of the acetabulum associated with quadrilateral plate fractures using the tension band technique. Twelve patients (9 men and 3 women) were included in the study. Mean patient age was 38.6 years (range, 24-47 years). Minimum follow-up was more than 2 years postoperatively. Reconstruction of the fracture included anatomic reduction of the fracture and fixation with a buttress plate for the posterior column and a prebent one-third tubular plate for the quadrilateral plate fracture. Clinical results were excellent in 58% of patients and good in 17% of patients. Radiologic results were excellent in 50% of patients and good in 17% of patients. Radiologically, based on the fracture gap postoperatively, 8 (66%) patients showed anatomic reduction, 2 (17%) showed good reduction, and 2 (17%) showed poor reduction. The study confirms that this method of reconstruction facilitates accurate and firm reduction of displaced posterior wall fractures of the acetabulum.