The Pararectus approach: a preferred surgical approach for fixation of acetabular fractures predominantly involving the anterior column - a narrative review.

Beginning in France in the 1960s, the management of acetabular fractures has increasingly evolved toward surgical treatment strategies. The basic principles established by the pioneers of acetabular surgery, Letournel and Judet - anatomical reconstruction of the joint and stable osteosynthesis - remain unchanged. Modern advancements in surgical techniques aim to reduce access-related trauma and minimize complications. The notable rise in acetabular fractures among the elderly, which predominantly affect the anterior aspects of the acetabulum, has driven the development of less invasive, soft tissue-sparing anterior approaches. This evolution began with the ilio-inguinal approach in the 1960s, progressed to the modified Stoppa approach in the 2000s and, most recently, the Pararectus approach in the 2010s. Each of these approaches upholds the fundamental principles of effective acetabular fracture care, while offering distinct advantages and disadvantages. In this review, we examine the merits and limitations of the Pararectus approach, specifically focusing on its utility in the surgical treatment of anterior column posterior hemitransverse acetabular fractures. Ultimately, the success of the individual patient's outcome is less dependent on the chosen approach and more on the surgeon's experience and expertise. Ideally, surgeons should be proficient in all these approaches to tailor the surgical strategy to the individual patient's requirements, thereby ensuring optimal outcomes.

Endopelvic zones and constant fragment mapping in acetabular fractures.

OBJECTIVE: This study aims to characterize the constant fragment (CF) in acetabular fractures and to provide a novel nomenclature of anatomic zones from the vantage point of the endopelvic approach. DESIGN: Retrospective clinical study SETTING: Urban Level I trauma center, Patients/participants: One hundred and eleven consecutive acetabular fractures eligible for an AIP approach and treated surgically. INTERVENTION: 3D mapping of the CF line of fractures using a novel endopelvic anatomical zoning system. MAIN OUTCOME MEASUREMENT: Correlation of Letournel's fracture types to the size of the CF and its location based on precise anatomical nomenclature. RESULTS: The average age of patients was 47 years (range, 12 to 88 years), predominantly comprising male patients (78 %, n = 87) and female patients (22 %, n = 24). Fractures were grouped into 3 categories based on the size of the CF and its location from anterior to posterior. Group 1 included AC fractures which demonstrated the largest CF. The CF nearly always spared Zone 4. Group 2 included transverse fractures, T-Type fractures, and T-Type with posterior wall fractures. The CF was of intermediate size, and it often spared Zone 4. Group 3 included anterior column posterior hemitransverse fractures and associated both column fractures. The CF was the smallest of all categories and rarely spared Zone 4. CONCLUSION: Our analysis suggests consistent and repeatable patterns and sizes of constant fragments. These findings can serve as an endopelvic roadmap for the AIP approach based on fracture types, guiding placement of reduction clamps, vectors of reduction and hardware position.

Treatment of hip instability after total hip replacement with pelvic osteotomy using a modified Stoppa approach.

INTRODUCTION AND IMPORTANCE: Hip dislocation remains a significant complication following total hip arthroplasty, even though its incidence has decreased. While closed reduction is typically performed for early dislocations, delayed or chronic dislocations often necessitate acetabular or femoral component revision. CASE PRESENTATION: This document describes the treatment of hip dislocation in a 56-year-old patient through pelvic osteotomy without component revision. An acetabular component malposition was identified, exhibiting an 80-degree inclination and 20-degree cup anteversion. Owing to limited bone stock, a modified Stoppa approach was used for pelvic osteotomy to reduce acetabular inclination. The patient displayed remarkable clinical improvement, achieving a Harris Hip Score of 85 at the two-year check-up with no signs of dislocation. CLINICAL DISCUSSION: Recurrent hip dislocation is difficult to manage. It frequently necessitates component revision, presenting a challenge due to issues with cup extraction and limited bone stock. Preoperative detection of loosened components is crucial. If it goes undetected, the extraction process can result in bone loss, potentially leading to pelvic insufficiency. CONCLUSION: Successful revisions of hip arthroplasties can be achieved with geometric modifications to the pelvis.

Comparison of Two Surgical Approaches for Periacetabular Osteotomy: A Retrospective Study of Patients with Developmental Dysplasia of the Hip.

OBJECTIVE: Given the intricate challenges and potential complications associated with periacetabular osteotomy (PAO) for developmental dysplasia of the hip (DDH). Our study aimed to compare the clinical and imaging benefits and drawbacks of two surgical approaches, the modified Stoppa combined iliac spine approach and the modified Smith-Peterson approach, for treating PAO and to provide guidance for selecting clinical approaches. METHODS: A retrospective analysis of 56 patients with 62 DDHs was conducted from June 2018 to January 2022. The experimental group underwent surgery via the modified Stoppa combined iliac spine approach, while the control group underwent surgery via the modified Smith-Peterson approach for periacetabular osteotomy and internal fixation. Basic statistical parameters, including age, sex, BMI, and preoperative imaging data, were analyzed. Differences in surgical time, intraoperative blood loss, and postoperative imaging data were compared, as were differences in preoperative and postoperative imaging data between the two groups. RESULTS: There were 28 hips in the experimental group and 34 in the control group. Moreover, there was no significant difference in the basic parameters between the experimental and control groups. Before and after the operation, for the LCE angle, ACE angle, and Tonnis angle, there was no significant difference in acetabular coverage (p > 0.05). However, there were significant differences between the two groups in terms of the above four indicators before and after the operation (p < 0.05). After the operation, the experimental group exhibited significant increases in both lateral and anterior acetabular coverage of the femoral head. However, the experimental group had longer operation times and greater bleeding volumes than did the control group. Despite this, the experimental group demonstrated significant advantages in protecting the lateral femoral cutaneous nerve compared to the control group. CONCLUSION: The modified Stoppa combined iliac spine approach can be considered a practical approach for PAO and is more suitable for patients with DDH who plan to be treated by one operation than the classic modified Smith-Peterson approach for PAO.

A comparison between ilioinguinal and modified Stoppa approach in anterior column acetabular fractures.

INTRODUCTION: Pelvis fractures are among the most difficult fractures to manage and treat for Orthopedic surgeons. Anatomic reduction is the main goal to reach in the acetabular fractures' treatment. The following study compares clinical outcomes and complications of Ilioinguinal versus modified Stoppa approach in Open Reduction and Internal Fixation (ORIF) of anterior column acetabulum fractures. MATERIALS AND METHODS: A comparative analysis on 90 patients undergoing ORIF on acetabular fracture has been performed. Patients have been divided into two groups. The first group was treated by Ilioinguinal approach (n = 48), the second group by modified Stoppa approach (n = 42). The following parameters have been compareted: quality of fragment reduction; operative time; peri­ and post-operative blood loss; complications; clinical and radiographic outcomes. RESULTS: The modified Stoppa approach has shown a shorter mean operative time (146 min vs 175 min), fewer complications (14/48 vs 6/42), less blood loss both in the perio-operative phase (0.8 Hb pt vs 1.3 Hb pt) than in postoperative one (1.1 Hb pt vs 1.5 Hb pt), a lower rate of nerve, infections and critical complications. On the other hand, the ilioinguinal approach has showed better results in terms of quality of fracture reduction (43/48 patiens with anatomical or near anatomical reduction vs. 37/42). No significant differences concerning vascular lesions, clinical and functional outcomes have been found between the two groups. CONCLUSIONS: The modified Stoppa approach results in shorter operative time, less intra-operative blood loss and fewer complications than the ilioinguinal one. Greater anatomic reduction is achieved by Ilioinguinal approach; however, this does not necessarily translate into better clinical and functional outcomes which, overall, are comparable in the two analysed approaches. In conclusion, the modified Stoppa approach is deemed to be a better alternative in treating these fractures.

Clinical and Radiological Outcomes of Patients With Anterior Acetabulum Fractures Treated by the Modified Stoppa Approach.

Introduction Acetabular fractures are intra-articular fractures involving the lower extremity's weight-bearing dome. These fractures require an anatomical reduction of the fracture fragments. This aim can be accomplished by the selection of an appropriate surgical approach. This study aimed to analyze the clinical and radiological outcomes of patients with fractures in the anterior part of the acetabulum who were treated by the modified Stoppa approach. Methods This prospective observational study was conducted from April 2022 to September 2023. The inclusion criteria were: (i) age between 18 and 70 years, (ii) displaced acetabular fracture (displacement > 3 mm), (iii) within three weeks of trauma (iv) acetabular fractures with involvement of anterior column. Exclusion criteria included: (i) patients with visceral injuries requiring colostomy, (ii) pathological fracture, (iii) open fractures of the acetabulum, and (iv) neglected fracture (more than three weeks). Intraoperative data regarding surgical time, amount of blood loss, and incidence of intraoperative complications were recorded. In the postoperative period, anteroposterior X-ray and Judet views of the pelvis X-ray were obtained. Matta criteria were used to judge the quality of Fracture reduction and fixation. All the patients to be included in this study had undergone a minimum follow-up duration of six months. At the last follow-up, an assessment of the functional outcome of the affected hip by Merle d'Aubigné Hip Score and Harris Hip Score was done. Results Twenty-four patients were included in the study. The mean patient age was 36.08±11.65 years. Eighteen patients were male (75%) and six patients were female in this study. All acetabular fractures were due to high-energy trauma: road traffic accidents in 22 cases (91%) and fall from height in two cases (9%). According to Judet & Letournel's classification, there were 13 T-type fractures, five transverse fractures, and six associated both column fractures. The mean duration of surgery was 152.08 ±29.19 minutes, and the mean intraoperative blood loss was 277.08±85.95 ml. Intraoperatively one unit of blood transfusion was done in most cases. There were intraoperative complications of rent in the external iliac vein in two patients. Postoperative X-rays showed anatomical reduction in 17 cases, imperfect reduction in five cases, and poor reduction in two cases. Functional outcome of the hip by Merle d'Aubigné Hip Score was very good in 15, good in four, fair in three, and poor in two patients. Similar functional outcomes were obtained with the Harris Hip Score. Conclusion The results of the current study demonstrated that the modified Stoppa approach allows good visualization of the pelvic brim, quadrilateral surface, and posterior column. Lesser experienced orthopedic surgeons should utilize this approach to get good radiological and functional outcomes.

Drain vs. no-drain for acetabular fractures after treatment via a modified stoppa approach: A retrospective study.

Objective: The aim of this study was to compare the clinical efficacy of close suction drainage (CSD) and no-CSD after a modified Stoppa approach for the surgical fixation of acetabular fractures. Methods: This retrospective study included 49 consecutive acetabular fracture patients, who presented to a single level I trauma center for surgical fixation, using a modified Stoppa approach from January 2018 to January 2021. All surgeries were performed by a senior surgeon using the same approach, and the patients were divided into two groups based on whether CSD was used after the operation. Details of the patient demographics, fracture characteristics, intraoperative indicators, reduction quality, intra and postoperative blood transfusion, clinical outcomes, and incision-related complications were collected. Results: No significant differences were found in the demographics, fracture characteristics, intraoperative indicators, reduction quality, clinical outcomes, and incision-related complications between the two groups (P > 0.05). The use of CSD was associated with a significantly higher postoperative blood transfusion volume (P = 0.034) and postoperative blood transfusion rate (P = 0.027). In addition, there was a significant difference in postoperative temperatures, especially on postoperative Day 2 (no-CSD 36.97 ± 0.51°C vs. CSD 37.34 ± 0.69°C, P = 0.035), and higher visual analogue scale (VAS) scores, especially on postoperative Day 1 (no-CSD 3.00 ± 0.93 vs. CSD 4.14 ± 1.43, P = 0.002) and 3 (no-CSD 1.73 ± 0.94 vs. CSD 2.48 ± 1.08, P = 0.013). Conclusion: The results of this study suggest that routine use of CSD should not be recommended for patients with acetabular fractures after surgical fixation using a modified Stoppa approach.

Efficacy and safety of pararectus approach for the treatment of acetabular fractures: A systematic review and meta-analysis.

BACKGROUND: The pararectus (PR) approach combines the advantages of the second window of the ilioinguinal approach and the medial view of the modified Stoppa approach. However, it is unclear whether the PR approach is more effective or safer than the other approaches, as few clinical studies have compared the PR approach with the other approaches. The aim of this study was to provide a systematic review and meta-analysis comparing the PR approach with the other approaches for the treatment of acetabular fractures and to answer the following question: Are the results of the PR approach superior to those of the other approaches in terms of reduction quality, operative time, operative blood loss, complications, and clinical outcomes for treatment of acetabular fractures? PATIENTS AND METHODS: A systematic literature review was conducted using relevant original studies from various databases. Pooling of data was performed using RevMan software (version 5.3, Cochrane Collaboration, Oxford, UK). A p-value<0.05 was considered to be significant. We calculated the mean differences for continuous data and odds ratio for dichotomous data with 95% confidence intervals for each outcome. Statistical heterogeneity was assessed based on I2 using the standard χ2 test. RESULTS: Five studies were included in this meta-analysis. The findings demonstrated that operative blood loss was significantly lower in the PR approach than in the other approaches (p=0.04). There was no significant difference in the rate of anatomical reduction, the operative time, the rate of complications, and the rate of excellent or good clinical score between the PR approach and the other approaches. DISCUSSION: The PR approach provided lower operative blood loss, although there was no significant difference in reduction quality, operative time, complications, and excellent or good clinical score between the PR approach and the other approaches. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: III.

Ilioinguinal versus modified Stoppa approach for open reduction and internal fixation of displaced acetabular fractures: a systematic review and meta-analysis of 717 patients across ten studies.

BACKGROUND: Acetabulum fracture is one of the most challenging fractures to manage and operate for orthopaedic surgeons; anatomical reduction of fractures and reconstruction of the joint is of utmost importance. These factors in turn are dependent on the appropriate surgical approach used to improve the clinical outcomes and reduce associated complications. Hence, this meta-analysis aims to compare the outcomes of ilioinguinal versus modified Stoppa approach for open reduction and internal fixation (ORIF) of displaced acetabular fractures. METHODS: Medline (PubMed), Embase, Scopus, and Cochrane Library databases were searched from their inception to 10th of June 2021 for both randomized clinical trials (RCTs) and or non-randomized studies comparing the outcomes of ilioinguinal approach and modified Stoppa approach for the ORIF of acetabular fractures. The estimates of treatment effects were described by mean difference (MD) for continuous variables and odds ratio (OR) for dichotomous variables with corresponding 95% confidence (95% CI) intervals. The risk of bias was assessed by MINORS tool for the non-randomized, and the Cochrane Collaboration's risk of bias tool for RCTs. RESULT: A total of ten studies (717 patients), three RCTs and seven retrospective studies, were included. Modified Stoppa approach showed shorter mean duration of surgery (MD 47.13, 95% CI: 27.30-66.96), lesser number of overall complications (OR 2.14, 95% CI: 1.46-3.13), less intraoperative blood loss (MD 259.65, 95% CI: 152.66-366.64), and lower rates of infection (OR 2.17, 95% CI: 1.14-4.15). However, ilioinguinal approach showed a better quality of fracture reduction (OR 0.59, 95% CI: 0.42-0.82). Results were equivocal in terms of vascular injuries (OR 1.88 (95% CI: 0.86-4.09), nerve injuries (OR 1.77, 95% CI: 0.99-3.17), heterotopic ossification (OR1.74, 95% CI: 0.63-4.82), and clinical outcome (OR 0.81, 95% CI: 0.45-1.47) between the two groups. CONCLUSION: Modified Stoppa approach carries a lesser duration of surgery, lesser intraoperative blood loss, fewer overall complications, and lesser postoperative infection rates compared to ilioinguinal approach. Although a better anatomical reduction is achieved by ilioinguinal approach, however, this does not translate into better clinic functional outcomes which remain comparable between the two approaches. So overall, modified Stoppa approach seems a better alternative for managing these fractures.

Periacetabular osteotomy: A novel application of modified Stoppa approach.

BACKGROUND: The Bernese periacetabular osteotomy (PAO) is a well-established procedure for symptomatic hip dysplasia in adolescents and young adults. However, it remains a technically demanding procedure, and several major complications have been described, many of which are related to the approach and surgical exposure. The current study evaluates the efficacy and safety of PAO performed through a modified Stoppa approach. METHODS: A prospective series of nine consecutive patients with hip dysplasia were treated PAO through the modified Stoppa approach. The mean age was 22.4 years (15-30 years) and the mean follow-up was 3.2 years (2-5 years). Harris hip score (HHS) was used as a functional score, and the radiographic indices included the lateral center-edge angle (LCEA) and Tönnis roof angle. RESULTS: The approach allowed the osteotomy lines to be performed under direct visualization from the intra-pelvic surface of the acetabulum, aided by fluoroscopy. A lateral window was added to perform the final iliac cut and for subsequent mobilization and fixation of the acetabular fragment. The mean HHS improved significantly from 70.8 ± 4.9 points to 90.1 ± 3.3 points (p < 0.001). The mean LCEA improved from 8.2° ± 4.9 (range: 0-14) to 32.7° ± 5.3 (range: 26-40), with a mean improvement of 24.5°. The mean Tönnis angle improved from 28.4° ± 4.4 (range: 22-35) to 3.8° ± 3.3 (range: 0-10). Two patients had irritation from prominent screw heads that necessitated removal 1 year after the index procedure. One patient had radiographic progression of osteoarthritis. No cases of infection, non-union, heterotopic ossification, or nerve palsy were identified till the latest follow-up. CONCLUSION: Ganz PAO can be safely conducted through the modified Stoppa approach, providing direct exposure to the osteotomized surfaces, and protecting susceptible neuro-vascular structures. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: IV.

Clinical Outcomes of the Modified Stoppa Combined with Iliac Fossa Approach for Complex Acetabular Fractures: A Medium- and Long-term Retrospective Study.

OBJECTIVE: The modified Stoppa combined with iliac fossa approach has gained increasing popularity. Although early clinical outcomes have been satisfactory, extensive long-term clinical outcomes are relatively scarce. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the medium- and long-term outcomes of this approach for complex acetabular fractures. METHODS: This was a retrospective study involving 57 patients with complex acetabular fractures from January 2009 to January 2016. All fractures were treated with the modified Stoppa combined with iliac fossa approach. Follow-up was at least 5 years. Primary outcome measures, including quality of reduction and clinical outcomes, were recorded by an independent observer. Secondary outcome measures included time to surgery, surgical time, intraoperative blood loss, and perioperative complications. RESULTS: Fifty-seven patients (range, 18-80 years) included 46 males and 11 females. There were 32 cases on the left side and 25 cases on the right side. The most common associated injury was pulmonary contusion. According to the Judet-Letournel classification, there were 27 both-column fractures, 16 anterior column with posterior hemitransverse fractures and 14 T-type fractures. The average time from injury to surgery was 7.3 days. The average intraoperative blood loss and transfusion were 750.9 ml and 564.3 ml, respectively. All fractures healed within 6 months after surgery. The average follow-up time was 7.7 years, and there was no loss of follow-up. The quality of reduction was graded as anatomical in 23 cases (40.4%), imperfect in 22 cases (38.6%), and poor in 12 cases (21.0%). According to grading system of Merle d' Aubigne and Postel, clinical outcomes at 1 year follow-up were excellent in 17 cases (29.8%), good in 25 cases (43.9%), fair in four cases (7.0%), and poor in 11 cases (19.3%). The excellent and good rate was 73.7% and the difference was not statistically significant compared with the clinical outcomes at the last follow-up. Intraoperative complications included four cases of obturator nerve injury and two cases of vascular injury. Postoperative complications included one case of wound delayed healing, two cases of deep vein thrombosis, two cases of avascular necrosis of femoral head, three cases of heterotopic ossification and five cases of post-traumatic arthritis. Only one of these patients underwent reoperation for femoral head necrosis. CONCLUSIONS: The modified Stoppa combined with iliac fossa approach can achieve satisfactory reduction quality and hip function. It might be a valuable alternative to the ilioinguinal approach for the surgical management of acetabular fractures.

Oblique-ilioischial plate technique: a novel method for acetabular fractures involving low posterior column.

BACKGROUND: Complex acetabular fractures involving the anterior and posterior columns are an intractable clinical challenge. The study investigated the safety and efficacy of oblique-ilioischial plate technique for acetabular fractures involving low posterior column. METHODS: A retrospective analysis of 18 patients operated with the oblique-ilioischial plate technique by the modified Stoppa approach (or combined with iliac fossa approach) between August 2016 and July 2021 for low posterior column acetabular fractures was conducted. The anterior column was fixed with a reconstructed plate from the iliac wing along the iliopectineal line to the pubis. The low posterior column was fixed with the novel oblique-ilioischial plate running from the ilium to the ischial ramus. Operative time, intraoperative blood loss, reduction quality, and postoperative hip function were recorded. RESULTS: Out of the 18 patients, 10 were male and 8 were female. The mean age was 48.6±10.2 years (range: 45-62 years); The mean interval from injury to operation was 7.2±1.4 days (range: 5-19 days); The mean operative time was 2.1±0.3 h (range: 1.0-3.2 hours); The mean intraoperative blood loss was 300±58.4 mL (range: 200-500 mL). Postoperative reduction (Matta's criteria) was deemed as excellent (n = 9), good (n = 4), and fair (n = 5). At the final follow-up, the hip function (modified Merle d'Aubigne-Postel scale) was deemed as excellent (n = 11), good (n = 3), and fair (n = 4). The mean union time was 4.5±1.8 months (range: 3-6 months). No implant failure, infection, heterotopic ossification, or neurovascular injury were reported. CONCLUSION: The oblique-ilioischial plate technique via anterior approach for acetabular fractures involving low posterior column offers reliable fixation, limited invasion, little intraoperative bleeding, and fewer complications. However, larger multicenter control studies are warranted.

Comparison between ilioinguinal approach and modified Stoppa approach for the treatment of acetabular fractures: An updated systematic review and meta-analysis.

BACKGROUND: The modified Stoppa (MS) approach is an alternative to the ilioinguinal (IL) approach and three meta-analyses comparing these two approaches for the treatment of acetabular fractures were published previously. The aim of this study was to provide an updated systematic review and meta-analysis comparing the MS approach with the IL approach for the treatment of acetabular fractures and to answer the following question: are the results of the MS approach superior to those of the IL approach in terms of reduction quality, operative time, operative blood loss, complications, and clinical outcomes for treatment of acetabular fractures? PATIENTS AND METHODS: An updated systematic literature review was conducted using relevant original studies from various databases (PubMed, Web of Science and the Cochrane Library). Pooling of data was performed using RevMan software (version 5.3, Cochrane Collaboration, Oxford, UK). A p-value of<0.05 was considered to be significant. We calculated the mean differences (MDs) for continuous data and odds ratio (OR) for dichotomous data with 95% confidence intervals (CIs) for each outcome. Statistical heterogeneity was assessed based on I2 using the standard Chi2 test. When I2>50%, significant heterogeneity was assumed and a random-effects model was applied for the meta-analysis. A fixed-effects model was applied in the absence of significant heterogeneity. RESULTS: Six studies were included in this meta-analysis. The findings demonstrated that the rate of anatomical reduction was significantly higher in the MS approach than in the IL approach (I2=0%, OR=1.75, 95% CI: 1.13-2.69, p=0.01), the operative time was significantly shorter in the MS approach than in the IL approach (I2=88%, MD=-63.60, 95% CI: -93.01 - (-34.20), p<0.0001) and operative blood loss was significantly lower in the MS approach than in the IL approach (I2=75%, MD=-350.51, 95% CI: -523.45 - (-177.58), p<0.0001). There was no significant difference in the rate of nerve injury (I2=0%, OR=0.47, 95% CI: 0.16-1.39, p=0.17), the rate of vascular injury (I2=0%, OR=0.51, 95% CI: 0.17-1.49, p=0.22), the rate of infection (I2=0%, OR=0.53, 95% CI: 0.25-1.12, p=0.10), the rate of heterotopic ossification (I2=45%, OR=0.63, 95% CI: 0.22-1.85, p=0.40), and the rate of excellent or good clinical score (I2=21%, OR=1.15, 95% CI: 0.56-2.38, p=0.70) between the two approaches. DISCUSSION: The MS approach provided better reduction quality, shorter operative time, lower operative blood loss, although there were no significant differences in the rate of complications, and excellent or good clinical score between the two approaches. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: III.

Short-term outcomes of mere modified Stoppa approach or in addition to ilia fossa approach for acetabular fractures / 中华创伤骨科杂志

Objective:Toevaluate the short-term outcomes of mere modified Stoppa approach or in addition to ilia fossa approach for acetabular fractures.Methods:From January 2016 to October 2019, 36 patients with acetabular fracture were treated at Department of Traumatology and Orthopaedics, Beijing Jishuitan Hospital. They were 28 males and 8 females with an average age of 45.2 years (from 27 to 78 years). The left side was affected in 15 cases and the right side in 21. By the Judet-Letournel classification, there were 13 anterior column fractures, 3 anterior column and wall fractures, 12 both-column fractures, 6 anterior and posterior hemitransverse fractures, and 2 T-shaped fractures.The time from injury to surgery averaged 6 days(from 2 to 12 days).All the patients were treated by open reduction and plate-screw fixation through the mere modified Stoppa approach or in addition to the ilia fossa approach.The quality of postoperative fracture reduction was evaluated according to the Matta score.The pain scores of visual analogue scale (VAS) for the patients before operation and 18 months after operation were recorded and compared. The fracture healing time, Harris hip score at the last follow-up and complications in the patients were recorded.Results:The average operation time in this cohort was 213.2 min (from 110 to 340 min). By the Matta scores, anatomical reduction was achieved in 28 cases and satisfactory reduction in 8.The 36 patients were followed up for an average of 20 months (from 18 to 25 months). Their VAS pain scores at 18 months after operation were(0.7 ± 0.6) points, significantly lower than those before operation [(6.7 ± 1.3) points] ( P<0.05). Their fracture healing time averaged 3.2 months (from 1.5 to 6.0 months). Their Harris hip scores at the last follow-up averaged 90.6 points (from 80 to 95 points), yielding 26 excellent and 10 good cases.There were no serious complications like internal fixation failure or neurovascular injury during the follow-up period. Conclusions:In the treatment of acetabular fractures, simple modified Stoppa approach or in addition to ilia fossa approach may lead to fine short-term outcomes, because fractures involving both anterior and posterior columns can be handled safely and effectively at the same time.

Internal fixation via only the modified Stoppa approach for central hip dislocation complicated with fracture of the posterior acetabular wall / 中华创伤骨科杂志

Objective:To evaluate internal fixation via only the modified Stoppa approach in the treatment of central hip dislocation complicated with fracture of the posterior acetabular wall.Methods:A retrospective study was conducted in the 13 patients with central hip dislocation and fracture of the posterior acetabular wall who had been treated at Department of Orthopedic Trauma, Nanfang Hospital between February 2015 and February 2018. They were 10 men and 3 women, aged from 31 to 65 years (average, 46.7 years). All patients were treated with internal fixation via only the modified Stoppa approach. The reduction of double-column and posterior wall fractures was evaluated according to the X-ray Matta scoring system, as well as to the Wiberg central-edge (CE) angles between the vertical line of the center point of the femoral head and the lateral edge of the acetabulum and acetabular tolerance on the normal and affected sides immediately after operation; the hip function was evaluated by the modified Merle d'Aubigne and Postel scoring system at 12 months after operation.Results:All patients were followed up for 16 to 52 months (average, 25.6 months). In all of them, reduction and fixation of central hip dislocation and acetabular fracture was completed successfully, and indirect reduction of posterior wall fracture and acetabular tolerance were satisfactory. Operation time ranged from 130 to 270 min, averaging 155.5 min; intraoperative blood loss from 600 to 5,600 mL, averaging 1,150.5 mL; intraoperative infusion of concentrated red blood cells from 2 to 12 U, averaging 6 U. By the X-ray Matta scoring system immediately after operation, anatomical reduction was achieved in 4 posterior wall fractures and satisfactory reduction in 9 ones. There was no significant difference between the normal and affected sides in the CE angle (43.53°±3.46° for the affected side versus 43.19°±3.28° for the normal side) or in the acetabular tolerance (76.56%±15.50% for the affected side versus 75.32%±16.24% for the normal side) ( P>0.05). The modified Merle d'Aubigne and Postel scores at 12 months after operation ranged from 12 to 18 points, averaging 16.5 points; the hip function was assessed as excellent in 9 cases, as good in 3 and as fair in one. By the last follow-up, none of the 13 patients lost fracture reduction, and their internal fixation was firm with no loosening or breakage. Conclusion:In the treatment of central hip dislocation complicated with fracture of the posterior acetabular wall, internal fixation via only the modified Stoppa approach can lead to satisfactory fracture reduction, firm fixation, good hip joint tolerance, and fine clinical efficacy.

Outcomes of Direct Infrapectineal Buttress Plate for Quadrilateral Surface Fractures of Acetabulum Using an Anterior Intrapelvic Approach.

PURPOSE: Reduction and stable fixation of the quadrilateral plate are challenging primarily due to its location in the true pelvis, limited bone stock, juxta-articular nature, and its comminution. The current study aimed to investigate the quality of reduction and functional outcomes after open reduction and internal fixation (ORIF) with infrapectineal buttress plating of the quadrilateral surface via an anterior intrapelvic approach. MATERIALS AND METHODS: We conducted a retrospective review of twenty-one patients with acetabular fractures involving quadrilateral plate operated at Ghurki Trust Teaching Hospital between January 2017 and December 2018. Radiological assessment of the quality of reduction was conducted using criteria described by Matta. Functional outcomes were evaluated using a modified Postel Merle d'Aubigné score. RESULTS: The current study included 15 males and 6 females with a mean age of 40.67±12.17 years (range, 22-62 years). The most common fracture pattern was anterior column and posterior hemi-transverse in eight patients followed by true bicolumn and T-type fractures in seven and four patients respectively. Both transverse fractures were transtectal. The quality of reduction according to Matta criteria was anatomical in 14 patients, imperfect in five and poor in two. Functional outcomes were excellent in 47.6% cases, good in 42.9%, and fair in 9.5% cases. Both patients with fair outcomes had non-anatomical reduction, and one required total hip arthroplasty at a later time. CONCLUSION: Quadrilateral plate reconstruction with an infrapectineal buttress plate applied though an anterior intrapelvic approach provides high rates of anatomical reduction and yields good functional outcomes.

Short-term results of surgical treatment of acetabular fractures using the modified Stoppa approach.

BACKGROUND: As the more commonly used ilioinguinal approach is extensive and associated with complications arising from the dissection along the inguinal canal, we attempt to evaluate the efficacy of the modified Stoppa approach as an alternative in the operative management of acetabular fractures. METHODS: Twenty-three patients with acetabular fractures, were operated by the modified Stoppa approach. Fractures were classified; operative time and blood loss were recorded; the radiological and clinical outcomes were prospectively analysed. We analysed the radiological results according to the criteria of Matta and the clinical results by the Merle d'Aubigne and Postel score with a mean follow up of 15.13 months. RESULTS: The clinical outcomes were excellent or good in nineteen cases, fair and poor in two patients each. In eighteen of our cases the reduction was anatomic, imperfect in two cases, and poor in three cases. The mean pre-operative displacements on axial, sagittal and coronal NCCT sections were 3.8, 3.1 and 3.6 mm, respectively; and mean post-operative displacements were 0.2, 0.3 and 0.2 mm, respectively. The mean pre-operative and post-operative fracture gap were 12.8 mm and 1.1 mm respectively. CONCLUSIONS: Minimizing perioperative morbidity and simultaneously allowing access for anatomical reduction are the major benefits of the approach. The modified Stoppa approach can substitute the ilioinguinal approach for the surgical fixation of acetabular fractures.

Clinico-Radiological Evaluation of Modified Stoppa Approach in Treatment of Acetabulum Fractures.

Background The aim of our study was to evaluate the efficacy of Modified Stoppa approach for surgical treatment of acetabulum fractures by analyzing clinical and radiological outcomes. Also, we assess intraoperative and postoperative complications of fracture treated by using Modified Stoppa approach. Objectives To evaluate clinical outcomes of Modified Stoppa approach by using Merle d'Aubigne hip score. To evaluate the radiological reduction quality of Modified Stoppa approach by using the criteria of Matta, and to assess complications of Modified Stoppa approach.  Method Thirty-two patients participated in this study (mean age 40 years; range 18-60 years) and the male to female ratio was 4:1, patients who underwent surgical intervention for acetabular fracture by using Modified Stoppa approach from Oct 2017 to April 2019 were included. Out of 32 patients, two were lost in follow up, leaving 30 of 32 patients for clinico-radiological analysis. We classified the fracture pattern according to Judet and Letournel classification based on preoperative X-ray AP view, Judet View, and 3D-CT pelvis. Operative time, blood loss, reduction quality, and perioperative complications were assessed in each patient. Clinical outcomes were assessed by Merle d'Aubigne hip score and radiological outcomes by criteria of Matta.  Results Out of 30 acetabulum fractures in 30 patients, three (10%) were categorized as anterior column fracture, one (3.3%) as transverse with posterior wall, one (3.33%) as T-type, six (20%) as anterior column with posterior hemi-transverse and 19 (63.33%) as both column fractures. In our study, most patients have trauma due to road traffic accident (RTA) in 25 (83.3%) and fall from stairs in three (10%) patients. Timing of surgery after trauma was average 5.83 days (range three to 15 days), Mean surgical time determined to be 214.66 min (range 150-350 min) and mean intraoperative loss 683.33 ml (range 230-1250 ml). Clinical outcomes by Merle d'Aubigne hip score was excellent in 13 (43.33%), good in 15 (50%), fair in two (6.66%) patients whereas poor results in 0 (0%) patient (p=0.001). Quality of reduction by Matta criteria was found to be an anatomical reduction in 26 (86.6%), imperfect reduction in three (10%), and poor reduction in one patient (3.33%) (p<0.001). Radiological grading by Matta criteria was excellent in 24 (80%), good in five (16.66%), and fair in one (3.33%) patient, and no patients met criteria for poor results (p<0.001). In operative complications one patient developed an external iliac vein injury which was repaired by a vascular surgeon, one patient had a superficial infection for which debridement, regular dressing, and IV antibiotics given and resolve in one month, obturator nerve injury in one patient which was resolve in five to six months, lateral femoral cutaneous nerve injury in one patient which resolved within three months and one patient urinary bladder injury which was repaired by a general surgeon.  Conclusion Our experience with Modified Stoppa approach for surgical treatment of acetabulum fracture in 30 patients is excellent and effective for better visualization to anterior column, quadrilateral plate, and up to sacroiliac joint. This approach provides better visibility of the fracture site which allows for good to an excellent reduction of fracture and fixation. Although Stoppa approach is cosmetic surgery in terms of scar size, there is less complication rate than the ilioinguinal approach.

[Calcaneal plate bridge reconstruction plate for acetabular fracture involving quadrilateral surface via modified Stoppa approach].

OBJECTIVE: To explore the effectiveness of the calcaneal plate bridge reconstruction plate for acetabular fracture involving quadrilateral surface via modified Stoppa approach. METHODS: Between January 2015 and December 2017, 18 patients with acetabular fracture involving quadrilateral surface were treated with the calcaneal plate bridge reconstruction plate via the modified Stoppa approach. There were 12 males and 6 females. The age ranged from 28 to 63 years (mean, 39 years). The cause of injury was traffic accident in 13 cases and falling from height in 5 cases. According to the Letournel-Judet classification, there were 10 cases of anterior and posterior column fractures, 6 cases of T-shaped fractures, and 2 cases of anterior column and posterior semi-transevere fractures. The interval from injury to operation was 6 to 24 days (mean, 8.6 days). The reduction quality was assessed by postoperative X-ray film and CT according to the criteria proposed by Matta. The hip joint function was assessed by the modified Merled'Aubigné-Postel score. RESULTS: The operation time was 120-240 minutes (mean, 165 minutes) and the intraoperative blood loss was 600-1 400 mL (mean, 850 mL). All patients were followed up 18-30 months (mean, 24.5 months). There were 2 cases of the fat liquefaction of abdominal incisions, 3 cases of intraoperative injury of lateral femoral cutaneous nerve, 1 case of lower limb thrombosis, and 1 case of abdominal pain and hematuria due to intraoperative accidental bladder injury. According to the criteria proposed by Matta, the reduction quality rated as anatomic reduction in 12 cases, satisfactory reduction in 5 cases, and unsatisfied reduction in 1 case, and the satisfaction rate was 94.4%. All fractures healed with the healing time of 3-5 months (mean, 3.4 months). During follow-up, no internal fixator loosening, breakage, or fracture displacement occurred. At last follow-up, according to modified Merled'Aubigné-Postel score, hip joint functions rated as excellent in 11 cases, good in 4 cases, fair in 2 cases, and poor in 1 case. The excellent and good rate was 83.3%. CONCLUSION: Application of calcaneal plate bridge reconstruction plate via the modified Stoppa approach for the acetabular fracture involving the quadrilateral surface can obtain satisfactory effectiveness.

Calcaneal plate bridge reconstruction plate for acetabular fracture involving quadrilateral surface via modified Stoppa approach / 中国修复重建外科杂志

Objective: To explore the effectiveness of the calcaneal plate bridge reconstruction plate for acetabular fracture involving quadrilateral surface via modified Stoppa approach. Methods: Between January 2015 and December 2017, 18 patients with acetabular fracture involving quadrilateral surface were treated with the calcaneal plate bridge reconstruction plate via the modified Stoppa approach. There were 12 males and 6 females. The age ranged from 28 to 63 years (mean, 39 years). The cause of injury was traffic accident in 13 cases and falling from height in 5 cases. According to the Letournel-Judet classification, there were 10 cases of anterior and posterior column fractures, 6 cases of T-shaped fractures, and 2 cases of anterior column and posterior semi-transevere fractures. The interval from injury to operation was 6 to 24 days (mean, 8.6 days). The reduction quality was assessed by postoperative X-ray film and CT according to the criteria proposed by Matta. The hip joint function was assessed by the modified Merled'Aubigné-Postel score. Results: The operation time was 120-240 minutes (mean, 165 minutes) and the intraoperative blood loss was 600-1 400 mL (mean, 850 mL). All patients were followed up 18-30 months (mean, 24.5 months). There were 2 cases of the fat liquefaction of abdominal incisions, 3 cases of intraoperative injury of lateral femoral cutaneous nerve, 1 case of lower limb thrombosis, and 1 case of abdominal pain and hematuria due to intraoperative accidental bladder injury. According to the criteria proposed by Matta, the reduction quality rated as anatomic reduction in 12 cases, satisfactory reduction in 5 cases, and unsatisfied reduction in 1 case, and the satisfaction rate was 94.4%. All fractures healed with the healing time of 3-5 months (mean, 3.4 months). During follow-up, no internal fixator loosening, breakage, or fracture displacement occurred. At last follow-up, according to modified Merled'Aubigné-Postel score, hip joint functions rated as excellent in 11 cases, good in 4 cases, fair in 2 cases, and poor in 1 case. The excellent and good rate was 83.3%. Conclusion: Application of calcaneal plate bridge reconstruction plate via the modified Stoppa approach for the acetabular fracture involving the quadrilateral surface can obtain satisfactory effectiveness.