Pathologic fractures of the acetabulum and the pelvis

Metastatic involvement of the pelvis, and in particular the acetabulum, is a common finding among patients with metastatic osseous disease. With involvement of the joint surfaces, specifically the hip and sacroiliac joints, marked compromise of function can occur. With advances in imaging and the evolution of surgical reconstructive alternatives, most of these patients can be rendered pain-free and functional by transferring weight distribution onto more stable elements of the hemipelvis. Reconstruction must be feasible and in the best interests of the patient. The decision to proceed represents a collective opinion of the patient, oncologist, and surgeon.