Treatment of Geriatric Acetabular Fractures-A Concise Review of the Literature

Abstract

Optimal management of acetabular fractures (AF) in the elderly has not been defined clearly. The incidence of such fractures is rising in the aging population. Advancements in implant technology have improved the longevity of combined or staggered total hip arthroplasty procedures for this patient population, thus allowing earlier weight bearing and continued functional independence. Perioperative/postoperative complication rates remain significantly high in all treatment arms. Overall, the best outcomes with the lowest complication rates are achieved when AF are treated by a surgeon or a team of surgeons who specialize in both orthopedic traumatology and adult reconstruction.

Keywords: Acetabular fractures; Open reduction and internal fixation; Posttraumatic arthritis; Total hip arthroplasty.