Lower Limb: Acetabulum Fractures

Question 1

describe what is the acetabulum is

Answer 1

the intra-articular section of the pelvis which forms the ‘cup’ of the hip joint

Question 2

how does the mechanism for acetabulum fractures differ between young and old people

Answer 2

young = high energy trauma
old = low energy trauma(poorer bone quality)

Question 3

describe how an acetabulum fracture may be associated with a hip dislocation

Answer 3

posterior wall of acetabulum can fracture as head of femur is pushed out the back of the hip joint

Question 4

what investigations are used for acetabulum fractures

Answer 4

fracture pattern can be difficult to see on X-ray, so CT helps and is essential for surgical planning

Question 5

describe how undisplaced or small acetabulum fractures can be treated

Answer 5

conservatively

Question 6

describe how displaced or unstable acetabulum fractures are treated

Answer 6

anatomic reduction and rigid fixation

Question 7

what treatment might be considered for older patients with unstable or displaced acetabulum fractures

Answer 7

total hip replacement

Question 8

how does rigid fixation benefit younger patients

Answer 8

reduce the risk of post-traumatic OA