Treatment of Operative Acetabular Fractures in an Aging Population: Fixation versus Acute Arthroplasty versus Delayed Arthroplasty.

Abstract

Posttraumatic osteoarthritis is one of the most common complications following open reduction and internal fixation of acetabular fractures. Total hip arthroplasty is a well-accepted option for posttraumatic arthritis in the setting of previously treated acetabular fractures. However, the incidence of acetabular fractures continues to increase in the aging population. This poses challenges including osteoporosis and the emphasis on early mobilization. Questions remain regarding the major differences in outcomes of delayed total hip arthroplasty versus acute "fix-and-replace." This review aims to compare outcomes between these treatment algorithms for displaced acetabular fractures.