Open reduction and internal fixation of an acetabular fracture during pregnancy

Fractures of the pelvis and acetabulum are common injuries in a mechanized society and frequently occur in the younger age groups. Commonly associated injuries such as hemorrhage, urethral tears, gastrointestinal injuries, and major vessel damage are well reported and well known to orthopaedic surgeons. Another less frequently reported complication of pelvic fractures is the potential association with pregnancy and subsequent childbirth. This problem was first described by Malgaigne in 1857 in his classic article on double vertical fractures of the pelvis, in which he described a 34-year-old woman with a pelvic fracture who subsequently died during childbirth. A review of the literature reveals numerous articles addressing potential problems with parturition subsequent to a pelvic fracture and several articles dealing with pelvic fractures occurring during pregnancy. The current literature on pelvic fractures during pregnancy, however, recommends only nonoperative treatment and, to our knowledge, there have been no reports of operative fixation during pregnancy. The purpose of this article is to report a case of an acetabular fracture in a pregnant woman treated with open reduction and internal fixation, who went on to carry a full-term baby and have a normal delivery.