Acetabulum fractures in elderly patients: A review

Fractures of the acetabulum in elderly patients were often caused by low energy trauma. Fractures involving anterior column are more common and often associated with impaction and comminution. Osteoporosis further complicates the management. Percutaneous fracture fixation has low morbidity but it is a technically demanding procedure. Open reduction and fracture fixation is done with or without simultaneous total hip replacement. Delayed total hip replacement is considered in posttraumatic arthritis patients. Patients with minimal displaced fractures, associated both-column fractures with secondary congruence of joint and patients who are medically unfit for surgery can be managed non-operatively. Whatever be the method of management, these elderly patients should be mobilised as early as possible.