Treatment of acetabular fractures

Background: Acetabular fractures are difficult to manage. There are advocates of closed methods as well as surgical methods of treating acetabular fractures. But controversy still exist as to which is the best way of treatment. Methods: We have evaluated from 1995 to 2000, 68 cases of acetabular fractures. Twenty two cases were managed surgically and 46 cases were managed non-operatively. The cases were followed up for a period ranging from 12 to 78 months (Avg. 36 months). Results: The results of the treatment were assessed using the scoring system of Matta. In the non-surgically managed group congruent reduction was achieved in 36 cases and good to excellent functional results were achieved in 30 cases. In the surgically managed group congruent reduction was achieved in 18 cases and good to excellent functional results were achieved in 12 cases. In 32 cases early or late complications were seen. Conclusion: Even if the prognosis for the restoration of normal joint function is not good, the restoration of normal anatomy will improve the results of future reconstructive procedures.